As the glacial period ended, rising sea levels submerged the Bassian Plain, forming Bass Strait, which isolated Tasmanian Aboriginal peoples from mainland Australia for approximately 8,000 years before the arrival of Europeans.

The climate was colder than sub-tropical Norfolk Island, which proved a challenge for the hardy pioneers during the first few years, but eventually the district became self-supporting.

A number of hop drying kilns or oast houses remain in the area including those at Glen Derwent (built by Cullen) and Valleyfield.

In March 1818, former convict Denis McCarty proposed the construction of a road connecting Hobart Town and New Norfolk to Lieutenant Governor Sorell.

[20] Initially, McCarty suggested rebuilding a 16-foot (4.9 m) carriage road from New Town to Austins Ferry, extending it to New Norfolk in exchange for a 2,000-acre (810 ha) land grant.

McCarty sought compensation for the 546 pounds worth of goods lost during bushranger raids by securing the road construction contract.

[21] To undertake the project, he requested 15 convicts on government provisions for a year, eight bullocks with a cart, a sleeping tent, and road-making tools.

Despite the absence of a formal contract, McCarty proceeded with three additional convicts and 500 imperial gallons (2,300 L; 600 US gal) of duty-free rum as compensation for the extra labor.

Operating as large antiques centre, today Willow Court is regarded as a heritage site, with ongoing efforts to preserve and redevelop parts of it for tourism, community use, and historical interpretation.

The site’s history evokes mixed reactions, as it is a reminder of the darker aspects of mental health treatment but also offers a rich cultural and historical resource.

The Derwent Valley Railway Preservation Society, formed in 1990, reopened parts of the line for heritage passenger trains until 2005, when Pacific National halted operations.

Designed by Hobart architects Rodway and Butler, the brick theatre featured a cantilever verandah and replaced a fifty-year-old wooden structure.

[28] Originally seating 500 to 600 people, including 165 in the gallery, the theatre's raked floor provided clear views of the stage, and it was equipped with advanced sound and cinematograph technology.

It is notable for being the first mill in the southern hemisphere to manufacture paper from plantation-grown radiata pine, which marked a shift towards using more sustainable, locally sourced raw materials.

Despite challenges posed by the decline in print media, Boyer continues to operate, focusing on innovation and maintaining its role as a key economic driver in the Derwent Valley.

The mill also plays a part in the region's broader vision to develop new industries, such as renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, to ensure long-term sustainability.

New Norfolk is a central tourism hub in the upper Derwent Valley, offering easy access to nearby attractions like Mount Field, Lake Pedder, Strathgordon, Gordon Dam hydroelectric site, and the South West Wilderness.

[31] Historical properties like Glen Derwent and Tynwald have been repurposed as bed-and-breakfast accommodations, tea rooms, restaurants, and wedding venues, adding to the town's appeal.

Woodbridge on the Derwent, a heritage-listed Georgian mansion built in 1825, now operates as a luxury hotel, attracting international guests despite its location near a busy highway.

The mansion was originally constructed by convicts for Captain Roadknight, the first Constable of what was then Elizabeth Town, before passing to William Sharland, the assistant surveyor of Van Diemen's Land.

New Norfolk’s demographics highlight its status as a typical Tasmanian regional town, with a predominantly older, working-class population engaged in traditional industries, and a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Hobart.

[1] Home ownership rates in New Norfolk are higher than in major cities, with affordable property prices attracting families and retirees.

The median house price is considerably lower than in Hobart, making it an attractive option for those seeking more affordable living conditions.

New Norfolk is situated on the Lyell Highway, the primary east-west route in southern Tasmania, connecting Hobart to Strahan on the west coast.

The town is approximately 55 kilometres (34 mi) from Hobart Airport and well-connected with regular bus routes operated by Metro Tasmania.