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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) committed K50,000 towards the 51st Hiri Moale Festival during a cheque presentation on Thursday, March 13th, 2025, at the Motu Koita Assembly boardroom in Port Moresby.
Set to take place from April 3rd to 6th, the Hiri Moale Festival is one of Papua New Guinea’s most celebrated cultural events, honouring the historic Hiri trading voyages between the Motuans and Gulf people.
This year’s festival is expected to attract more than 15,000 attendees, drawing cultural enthusiasts from across the country and beyond.
Beyond the financial sponsorship, PNGTPA will collaborate with the Hiri Moale Festival Committee to capture high-quality photo and video content to promote the Hiri Motuan and Gulf cultures.
Motu Koita Assembly’s Manager & CEO, Mari Kila thanked TPA for its support.
“I’d like to thank TPA for its generous support towards the 51st Hiri Moale Festival. This support is vital in ensuring we deliver a successful event that honours our ancestors’ legacy while also providing opportunities for local artists, performers, and tourism operators.
TPA’s commitment strengthens our efforts to elevate the festival’s profile and show the unique traditions of the Motu Koita people to a broader audience,” said Kila.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of the festival.
“TPA is proud to support this year’s Hiri Moale Festival, as it reaffirms our commitment to preserving and promoting Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural heritage.
The Hiri Moale Festival is not just a celebration of history; it is a testament of the resilience and traditions of the Motu Koita people. As we approach the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary this year, this festival is one of those that shows our identity and the importance of cultural tourism,” said Uvovo.◼️
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The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), through its Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) and in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), has published the 2024 Papua New Guinea Annual International Visitor Survey (IVS) Report. Covering the period from January to December 2024, the report provides critical insights into visitor demographics, spending patterns, and overall experiences of Papua New Guinea (PNG) international tourists. These findings will support evidence-based planning and enhance PNG’s tourism offerings to align with evolving visitor expectations.
SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker highlighted the significance of the PTDI in shaping sustainable tourism growth across the Pacific.
He said SPTO remains committed to working closely with TPA and other member countries to ensure the PTDI continues to deliver meaningful insights that drive sustainable tourism development across the Pacific.
“As the leading hub for Pacific tourism research, SPTO is committed to equipping our member countries, including PNG, with reliable data to inform strategic decisions. The PTDI is a vital resource that enables governments and industry stakeholders to make informed choices that strengthen regional tourism development,” he said.
TPA CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo acknowledged the value of the IVS findings, highlighting their role in improving visitor experiences and positioning PNG as a competitive destination.
“These insights are instrumental in shaping the future of tourism in PNG. We appreciate SPTO’s collaboration in delivering these reports, which will guide our strategies for sustainable tourism growth,” said Uvovo.
The survey ran from January to December 2024, analyzing 3,701 responses from 3,775 collected, with a 24% response rate. 42% of respondents were first-time visitors, with an average household income of USD 86,074.
Australia recorded the highest visitor arrivals into PNG at 39%, Asia at 35%, and Europe at 8%. The dominant age group was 40-59 years old. 48% traveled to PNG for business, 23% traveled for leisure and 18% visited PNG to visit friends and relatives (18%).
Key attractions included nature, cultural heritage, business opportunities, and family visits. World War II heritage sites were a major draw for historical tourism. Visitors appreciated the warmth and hospitality of the local people.
The average prepaid visitor spending was USD 2,613, with 65% (USD 1,699) benefiting the local economy. In-country spending averaged USD 1,385 per trip, with an average stay of 10.2 nights. Visitors contributed USD 309 million to PNG’s economy, a 9% increase from the previous year.
Overall satisfaction was 4 out of 5, with 86% recommending PNG and 89% willing to return. Visitors rated hospitality, tours, handicrafts, accommodation, and activities highly. Areas for improvement included safety, travel costs, domestic flights, infrastructure, cleanliness, and security.
Since transitioning to SPTO’s management in October 2023, the PTDI continues to serve as an essential resource for tourism data across the Pacific. Funded by the New Zealand Government, the PTDI supports ten Pacific Island nations—Cook Islands, Niue, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, Kiribati, Timor Leste, and FSM-Yap—in evidence-based planning and decision-making. The initiative produces a bi-annual International Visitor Survey (IVS), an annual Business Confidence Index (BCI), and an annual Community Attitude Survey (CAS) report to strengthen regional tourism strategies.
To read the latest PTDI reports for PNG, click here: https://southpacificislands.travel/pacific-tourism-data-initiative/ptdi-reports-png/
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) officially signed a contract with Dustin Chen, a UK-based wildlife photographer, on Tuesday 11th March at the TPA office in Port Moresby to position the country as a premier global birding destination.
Renowned for his stunning photos of Papua New Guinea’s diverse avian life, TPA will engage Chen as a consultant for the development of Papua New Guinea’s National Birding Trail.
The agreement is set to run from April 18th, 2025, to April 18th, 2026, with TPA providing logistical support and funding.
Under the agreement, Chen will lead the identification and mapping of key bird-watching hotspots, conduct capacity-building programs for local birding guides, and contribute to the creation of high-quality visual content to enhance TPA’s marketing of this unique niche market to the world.
Chen has been instrumental in bringing international attention to Papua New Guinea’s extraordinary birdlife. His award-winning photograph, “Dance of the Flame Bird,” received high commendation in the ‘Behaviour: Birds’ category of the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition in 2022.
Capturing a male flame bowerbird in a captivating courtship display.
Through his extensive work, Chen has travelled to PNG many times to document the country’s birds, from the dense rainforests of Kiunga to other remote birding locations teeming with rare and endemic species. His expertise in the field will be crucial in shaping Papua New Guinea’s first structured National Birding Trail, aimed at attracting international birdwatchers and conservationists.
Chen highlighted the importance of the partnership with TPA.
“Based on my experience traveling across South America, Asia, and Africa, I am confident that PNG has the potential to become a leading destination for birding tourism.◼️
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) proudly celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) on Monday 11th March with a breakfast event, honouring the contributions of its female employees.
Thirty female staff members and their male colleagues celebrated this occasion demonstrating the organization’s inclusive work environment and the spirit of unity.
TPA’s Executive Manager for Corporate Affairs, Claire Kupo, delivered an inspiring message, emphasizing the importance of this year’s IWD theme, “Accelerate Action.“
“Today, on International Women’s Day 2025, we get to honour the strength, resilience, and vision of the women of TPA and around the world. This year’s theme, Accelerate Action, is a call to move beyond words and ignite real change,” said Kupo.
Kupo also encouraged everyone to take bold steps in empowering women across all sectors, reinforcing the need for meaningful progress toward gender equality.
“Together, we can create an environment where innovation and progress thrive, where each act of support propels us towards a more inclusive future. When women step forward with courage, every challenge becomes an opportunity, and together, we turn dreams into unstoppable change,” said Kupo.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, reiterated the organization’s commitment to promoting an equitable workplace.
“Equality is a strong driver behind TPA’s dynamic team. We take pride in the fact that more than 50% of our workforce is made up of talented and hardworking women. Their leadership, creativity, and dedication continue to propel PNG’s tourism sector forward,” said Uvovo.
The celebration concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony, and a group photo to commemorate the occasion. Staff members were encouraged to wear purple—the symbolic colour of International Women’s Day—to show solidarity in advancing gender equality.◼️
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The National Tourism Conference & Expo, is set to take place on Wednesday 9th to Thursday 10th April, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel Port Moresby, aligning with the Nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary.
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) urges tourism industry members, stakeholders, and business leaders to register for the much-anticipated National Tourism Conference & Expo 2025 (NTCE).
Under the theme “Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future,” the conference aims to bring together key industry players, government agencies, and international tourism experts to discuss strategies to advance Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector.
The event will be hosted by TPA in partnership Papua New Guinea Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA) and sponsored by Mineral Resource Development Company (MRDC) as the event’s platinum sponsor.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo calls on all industry members to register and participate in the 2025 National Tourism Conference & Expo.
“We are calling on all industry players, from accommodation providers and tour operators to government agencies and corporate investors, to be part of this timely event.
This is more than just a conference, this is a catalyst to transform Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector for the future,” said Uvovo.
The Tourism Conference & Expo will feature panel discussions, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen collaboration and innovation within the industry.
Over 35 expert speakers will share insights across eight conference sessions, while 300 participants and 43 exhibitors are expected to attend.
Interested participants can register through the TPA website. General admission fees are K1,000 per person, with discounted rates of K500 for PNGTIA, Surf, and Dive Association members.
For businesses looking to increase visibility, sponsorship opportunities are available under Gold, set at K100,000, Silver, at K75,000, and Bronze, at K50,000. Sponsors will receive premium branding exposure, VIP seating at the gala dinner, and media recognition.
Limited exhibition booth spaces are also available for corporates, at K1,500 or K700 for members of PNGTIA, offering businesses a chance to engage directly with potential clients and partners.
With the event drawing closer, TPA has set the deadline for registration: Saturday 29th March 2025. TPA urges all tourism industry stakeholders to secure their seats, exhibit their services, or take advantage of sponsorship packages before spaces run out.◼️
For more details, visit www.papuanewguinea.travel/ntc-2025/ or contact TPA’s event coordination team at ntc@papuanewguinea.travel
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Australian Government-funded Kokoda Initiative Partnership (KIP) have signed an MOA to boost tourism infrastructure and services along the Kokoda Trail.
The MOA, signed at Owens Corner on Tuesday 4 February, launches the “Kokoda Sanitation Project”. The Kokoda Sanitation Project is part of a broader effort to strengthen sustainable tourism development in Papua New Guinea. It will address inadequate and poor sanitation along the Kokoda Trail, which have been longstanding challenges for both tourists and locals.
TPA’s CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo said that the primary objective of the MOA is to strengthen tourism development along the Kokoda Trail.
“This partnership marks a significant step forward in our efforts to not only preserve the historical importance of the Kokoda Trail, but to enhance the visitor experience by improving facilities and services,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also emphasized the importance of upgrading campsite facilities and improving working conditions for porters.
“The Kokoda Trail is a national treasure. By improving the amenities and ensuring that local operators are better equipped to serve tourists, we are ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach the communities directly involved.
Local communities are at the heart of our tourism industry. This partnership ensures that they will directly benefit from the development projects along the trail,” said Uvovo.
The MOA will be in effect until 2026, with between three and five major projects planned for implementation. Success will be measured by the timely delivery of projects, the positive impact on local trekking facilities, and the subsequent benefits to the communities involved.
The core focus of this partnership is the promotion of sustainable tourism development and the utilization of local resources and knowledge. The TPA, with the support of KIP, aims to enhance the tourism infrastructure along the Kokoda Trail while preserving its cultural and historical significance.
The partnership is expected to deliver many benefits, including improved services and facilities, which will enable local businesses to charge higher campsite fees and increase revenue for the communities along the Track.
Future capacity-building initiatives for local tourism operators and associations will strengthen the Kokoda trekking industry, making it more competitive and sustainable, while environmentally, the introduction of upgraded sanitation services will support a healthier and safer environment for both locals and visitors.
Daniel Wells, Counsellor for Kokoda and Bougainville at the Australian High Commission, emphasized the significance of the Kokoda Track to the Australia-Papua New Guinea bilateral relationship.
“The Kokoda Trail remains one of the most important people-to-people links between PNG and Australia, with nearly 3,000 people, most of them Australian, walking the Track each year.
This is an investment by Australia in PNG’s most important tourism asset. Australia, through the Kokoda Initiative Partnership, is proud to have invested in measurable improvements to livelihoods outcomes for Kokoda communities, including through sustainable tourism initiatives,” said Wells.◼️
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Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Jimi District Development Authority (DDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Friday 11th October in Port Moresby to drive sustainable development and enhance tourism in the Jimi District of Jiwaka Province.
This partnership aims to strengthen the relationship between national, provincial, and district authorities, focusing on building capacity and providing material support for tourism-related projects. Both entities have committed to preserving Jimi District’s rich cultural heritage, while also improving infrastructure and promoting the area as one of the country’s key tourist destinations.
CEO of TPA, Eric Mossman Uvovo, praised the initiative.
“This MOU is important for TPA and Jimi DDA. It shows TPA’s commitment to protecting our people’s culture and promoting sustainable tourism by working with districts at the local level.
Jimi is a district with immense cultural and natural beauty, and we are excited to work together to build it into a tourism product. This partnership will contribute to the national tourism agenda and align with the government’s vision for 2050,” said Uvovo. The MOU is closely aligned with several national development plans, including Vision 2050, the Development Strategic Plan (DSP) 2010-2030, and the National Tourism Policy. It promotes the importance of provincial and district governments in protecting PNG’s cultural and natural heritage, a cornerstone for promoting sustainable tourism in the country.
Both parties have agreed to establish a Joint Milestones Matrix (JMM), which will outline annual targets and budget priorities, ensuring that progress is consistently reviewed and updated. PNGTPA will provide support and work closely with the district to ensure that all initiatives are community-focused and responsive to local needs.
The agreement also highlights the creation of a district-level data collection system, which will help monitor tourism trends, demographics, and cultural resources. By sharing this data, both TPA and the Jimi DDA aim to ensure that future tourism projects are based on accurate information and meet the needs of local communities.
Minister for Mining Member for Jimi Open Electorate & Chairman of Jimi District Development Authority, Hon. Wake Goi highlighted the importance of the MOU agreement for Jimi District.
“Through this landmark partnership, Jimi District will become a key tourism area in Papua New Guinea. Our collaboration with TPA is a start to a new chapter for the people of Jimi. This MOU is an approach that prioritizes environmental protection, and the active involvement of local communities in the decision-making process. I am committed to ensuring that this partnership leads to sustainable growth and more benefits for our district. I am excited for the opportunities this brings, not just for tourism, but for the development of my Jimi District and our future generations,” said Uvovo.◼️
📸 Above image: (L-R) Chairman of Jimi Marita Festival, Gabby Aipanga, Jimi District Administration’s (DDA) Finance Manager, Joseph Kala, Minister for Mining Member for Jimi Open Electorate & Chairman of Jimi District Development Authority, Hon. Wake Goi, Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo and TPA’s Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy during the official signing of the MOU between TPA and Jimi DDA.
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The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), through its Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) and in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), has published two significant reports from the International Visitor Survey (IVS).
These reports, covering the periods of June 2023 to May 2024 and January to June 2024, provide essential data on visitor preferences, spending patterns, and overall experiences of international tourists to Papua New Guinea (PNG). The insights will support both SPTO and PNGTPA in understanding visitor behavior and improving tourism offerings to meet evolving demands.
PNGTPA Chief Executive Officer Eric Mossman Uvovo praised the collaboration with SPTO and the PTDI team, emphasizing the importance of the reports for shaping PNG’s tourism future.
“These reports offer invaluable insights that will help us enhance the visitor experience and strengthen PNG’s position as a unique tourism destination. We are thankful for SPTO’s ongoing support in delivering these surveys,” Uvovo said.
Key Findings from the reports reveal that business travel is the leading reason for visiting PNG, while cultural attractions such as traditional dances, food preservation techniques, and historic architecture are also key draws. The hospitality and warmth of the local people further elevate the visitor experience.
From June 2023 to May 2024, international visitors contributed an estimated USD 296 million to the PNG economy, highlighting tourism’s role in driving economic growth and supporting local businesses. This represents a 21% increase from the previous period, reflecting a strong recovery in the sector.
However, for the January to June 2024 period, visitors contributed an estimated USD 150 million, a notable 40% increase from the previous reporting period, highlighting the growing appeal of PNG as a travel destination and the continued economic impact of tourism. Visitor satisfaction remained high across both reports, with most respondents rating their experience as either “good” or “excellent.” The positive feedback highlights PNG’s appeal, especially its rich culture and warm hospitality.
SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker highlighted the value of the PTDI, a research project funded by the New Zealand Government, specifically designed to collect and report on tourism information.
“SPTO’s role as the leading hub for Pacific Tourism Research allows us to drive initiatives like the PTDI, offering crucial insights into tourism trends and impacts. We are committed to providing our member countries, including PNG, with the data necessary for promoting sustainable tourism growth,” Mr Cocker shared.
Since transitioning to SPTO’s management in October 2023, the PTDI continues to be an essential resource for tourism data across the Pacific. 10 Pacific Island nations -Cook Islands, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, Kiribati, Timor Leste, and FSM-Yap, are in the PTDI project that is geared towards supporting evidence-based planning and decision-making. It includes the production of a bi-annual International Visitor Survey (IVS), an annual Business Confidence Index (BCI), and an annual Community Attitude Survey (CAS) report.◼️
For further information, email: info@papuanewguinea.travel
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The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), has published its first-ever Community Attitudes Survey (CAS) Report in Papua New Guinea (PNG), providing critical insights into local perspectives on tourism development and its impact on the country. The survey is an initiative of the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI), currently overseen by SPTO.
The survey, conducted from March 25th to May 17th, 2024, targeted PNG citizens and non-citizen residents. The research partnership allowed for responses to be collected via various means, including SMS and promoted through social media, websites, and university partnerships. A total of 2,986 responses were initially received, with 2,684 valid responses analysed after data cleaning. The majority of respondents (70%) were from the National Capital District (NCD), with smaller representations from the Momase, Southern, Highlands, and Islands regions.
Key demographic insights show that most respondents were between the ages of 18-39 years, with 58% being male. 98% of the respondents were PNG citizens, while 2% were non-citizens. 93.8% of respondents agreed that PNG needs more tourists, citing tourism’s potential to boost economic growth, create jobs, and support small businesses. 89.7% believed that tourism positively impacts the local economy, though concerns were raised about environmental degradation and cultural erosion.
Safety and security were major concerns, with many respondents pointing to law and order issues as potential challenges to tourism growth.
Respondents highlighted the importance of cultural exchange facilitated by tourism, while also expressing concern over the commercialisation of traditional cultures and potential environmental damage. The survey called for a focus on sustainable tourism practices to protect PNG’s natural resources and cultural heritage.
To address these findings, the following actions are recommended:
PNG Tourism Promotion Authority Chief Executive Officer Eric Mossman Uvovo shared that these findings were invaluable to the efforts in advancing PNG’s tourism industry.
Mr Mossman Uvovo shared that the recommendations would assist align tourism growth with community interests, ensuring that development benefits all stakeholders while preserving PNG’s unique cultural and environmental assets.
“While there is a strong appetite for more tourists, we need to balance this with safeguarding our environment and cultural heritage. We are committed to taking these recommendations forward to enhance tourism for both our visitors and our people,” Mr Mossman Uvovo said.
SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker commended the insights provided by the survey, stating, that the findings from the survey played a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in PNG.
“It’s clear that tourism is not just an economic driver, but a vehicle for cultural exchange and community empowerment. However, the feedback on safety and sustainability highlights areas we must prioritize to ensure that tourism in PNG grows in a way that benefits all stakeholders,” Mr Cocker said
The Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) is a research project funded by the New Zealand Government. It collects and reports on tourism data from 10 Pacific Island countries, including PNG, supporting evidence-based planning and decision-making. In addition to the CAS, PTDI produces a bi-annual International Visitor Survey (IVS) and an annual Business Confidence Index (BCI), all of which provide invaluable insights for tourism development.◼️
For more information, email: info@papuanewguinea.travel
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the National Airports Corporation (NAC) have stepped up efforts to make travel to PNG smoother and more convenient for international tourists and domestic travel, following a signed MOU earlier this year.
This partnership aims to upgrade airport infrastructure and services, making Papua New Guinea (PNG) a more accessible and attractive destination for global visitors.
The agreement, focused on improving both infrastructure and traveler services, marking it as a significant investment in the tourism sector by enhancing key airport facilities and creating a more streamlined experience for travelers.
Speaking during the 18th University of Papua New Guinea’s Tourism Convention in Port Moresby on Tuesday 1 October 2024, TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, said that the country will continue to see a steady increase in international arrivals, leading to higher tourism-related revenue and broader economic benefits for the country.
“Through our partnership with other organizations like NAC, we are prioritizing the modernization of our airports and improving the overall experience for our visitors. This is crucial to making Papua New Guinea more welcoming and accessible for tourists,” said Uvovo.
During his presentation at the World Tourism Day Conference in Port Moresby, on Friday 27 September 2024, NAC’s Acting Managing Director, Dominic Kaumu, highlighted various aspects of their efforts to enhance visitor experience.
Kaumu said that several areas of airport infrastructure are being upgraded, which include the upgrading terminal facilities, streamlining baggage handling, and updating signage to better guide tourists through the airport. He also said that additional investments are also being made to increase airport capacity, especially to accommodate peak seasons, when tourist traffic is highest.
He also added that the improvements will not only benefit major entry points like Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby but also make regional airports more accessible, particularly those near popular tourist destinations like Milne Bay and Kokoda. NAC’s role in upgrading regional airports will ensure that tourists can easily reach remote and emerging hotspots.
One of the standout features of the agreement is the establishment of TPA’s information centers at key airports. These centers will be a one-stop hub for tourists to access travel information, including maps, brochures, and real-time updates on flight schedules, accommodations, and transportation options.
The first of these centers was launched in 2018 at Jacksons International Airport, providing incoming tourists with essential services and guidance.
The information Centre will work alongside other travel-related organizations located in the international area, offering tourists a full suite of resources. Whether tourists need advice on cultural heritage sites, eco-tourism activities, or safety protocols, the information centre will have trained staff available to assist. Additionally, tourists will be able to access real-time travel advisories, making it easier for them to plan their trips safely and efficiently.
As part of the agreement, TPA will utilize the improved airport infrastructure in its marketing campaigns, promoting PNG as a more accessible and convenient destination. Highlighting PNG’s rich cultural heritage, adventure tourism, and eco-tourism opportunities, TPA has also planned to work on partnerships with airlines and travel agencies to offer package deals that capitalize on the upgraded infrastructure.
Uvovo said that the information centers will play an important role in promoting local tour operators and services, guiding tourists to key destinations across PNG by providing contact details, brochures, and booking services. This initiative is expected to support local businesses and generate more jobs within the tourism sector.
Uvovo also added that TPA has plans to expand these information centers to other airports across PNG, particularly those close to major tourist destinations, such as Rabaul and Milne Bay.
With the combined efforts of TPA and NAC, PNG’s airports are set to become more than just points of entry—they will be integral parts of the visitor experience, making the country’s unique attractions more accessible to the world.◼️
For more information, email: info@papuanewguinea.travel
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