Bob Bates Honoured with Tourism Lifetime Achievement

Proprietor of Trans Niugini Tours, Bob Bates, honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award during the Gala Dinner segment of the National Tourism Conference & Expo (NTCE2025) on Thursday 10 April, at the Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residence.

The Lifetime Achievement Awards were proudly sponsored by the Platinum Sponsor of the National Tourism Conference & Expo, the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries. Their partnership played a significant role in recognising industry legends who have shaped the tourism landscape of Papua New Guinea.

The award was jointly presented by the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Hon. James Marape, and the Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Belden Namah, in recognition of Mr. Bates’ lifelong commitment to developing and promoting tourism in Papua New Guinea.

Mr. Bates joined two other proud recipients recognised for their legacy and contributions to the tourism industry. These included Andrew and Juanita Barter, who received the award on behalf of the late Sir Peter Barter, founder of Melanesian Tourist Services Ltd; and Cheyne and Cecilie Benjamin, the son and wife of the late Max Benjamin, proprietor of the iconic Walindi Plantation Resort in West New Britain Province.

With more than four decades of service to the tourism sector, Bob Bates has long been a cornerstone of adventure and eco-tourism in Papua New Guinea. He arrived in the country in the early 1970s and quickly established Trans Niugini Tours, which has since become one of PNG’s most respected inbound tour operators.

His company is known for its commitment to cultural authenticity, environmental conservation, and community-based tourism. From setting up eco-lodges in remote parts of the country, such as Rondon Ridge, Karawari Lodge, and Ambua Lodge, to organising carefully curated cultural tours and expeditions, Mr. Bates has helped place Papua New Guinea on the global tourism map.

Bob Bates offered his thanks to the Prime Minister, the Minister for Tourism, PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), and the PNG Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA).

“I thank you all for this honour — although I must say, I’ve still got another 40 years in me, so it’s not quite a ‘lifetime’ yet!” said Bates.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, commended Mr. Bates for his remarkable contribution.

“Mr Bates is a name that resonates across the tourism industry not just in PNG but internationally. His deep respect for local culture, his investment in sustainable tourism, and his pioneering spirit have inspired generations. On behalf of TPA and the entire tourism family, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and thanks for his dedication to Papua New Guinea.”

Photo Caption: L-R): Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Beldan Namah, proprietor of Trans Niugini Tours, Bob Bates and the Prime Minister of PNG, Hon. James Marape presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award to Bob Bates during the presentation at the Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residence.