Tourism Promotion Authority launches 'hello poro' campaign and 50th independence anniversary travel packages

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) launched its Hello Poro Tourism Campaign alongside the 50th Independence Destination Tour Packages on Friday 5 September 2025 at Kwalimu Haus, Waigani in Port Moresby.

The launch, held as part of the nation’s 50th Independence Day Anniversary celebrations, is a part of TPA’s initiative to encourage Papua New Guineans to explore their own home.

The Hello Poro Campaign is a storytelling-driven media initiative that will highlight Mt. Hagen, Kavieng, Port Moresby, and Wewak as hero destinations through TPA’s social media reels, YouTube content and booking-enabled websites.

Alongside the campaign, the 50th Independence Tour Packages will offer ten curated four-day packages across the four main tourism regions, each subsidised by 50 per cent to make travel more affordable and accessible. Partner operators include Buna Treks & Tours, Paiya Tours, Bougainville Experience, PNG Tour Guide, and others who are collaborating with PNGTPA to deliver these experiences.

These initiatives are expected to drive higher visitation during the Independence period from September to December 2025, increase visibility for local operators and SMEs, strengthen domestic tourism habits, engage communities in showing PNG’s culture and history Speaking at the event, TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo said the initiatives reflect TPA’s
commitment to strengthening the tourism brand, boosting visitor engagement, supporting SMEs, and encouraging greater domestic travel.

“Tourism tells the story of who we are as Papua New Guineans – diverse, united, and welcoming. Hello Poro shows our people, our culture, and our destinations with authenticity and pride, while the subsidised Independence Tour Packages ensure that more people, both here at home and abroad, can share in these experiences. This is an investment in our long-term growth as a tourism nation,” said Uvovo.

The launch event featured remarks from industry representatives, media partners, and tourism operators. Guests were treated to a preview of the campaign video, a showcase of the subsidised tour packages, entertainment by Wan Squad, and a prize draw.◼️ 

Hello Poro Tour Packages Prize Winners
L-R: PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo and Air Niugini’s Officer In Charge, Capt. Samuel Taufa (far right) standing with the four winners of the Hello Poro Tour Package, which includes 3 nights accommodation with activities to four unique destinations in PNG. The winners were, starting second from left to right: Coral Sea Hotel’s Group Sales Manager, Wari Tola, Wisdom Travels’ Manager, Kabilraj Kanesh, O2 Visuals’ Creative Director, Ta’ita Autu and Choice Travels’ General Manager, Sophia Chia.
Hello Poro Tpa Official Launch
Team TPA with their CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo following the Hello Poro Campaign launch at the Kwalimu Haus in Waigani, Port Moresby.

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A two-decade journey through Kirkland’s lens reveals the vibrant spirit of Papua New Guinea.

More than 20 years of photography of Papua New Guinea has been captured in a new book released this week as part of the country’s 50th anniversary celebrations. 

Australian photographer David Kirkland has published Papua New Guinea – The Last Great Frontier, his sixth book on the country since he began capturing promotional photographs for the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) back in the early 2000s. 

Kirkland highlighted the significance of PNG’s unique culture. 

“It’s been one of my great privileges to return to this country frequently over the years and capture photographs that have been used to promote PNG worldwide. 

To me, this country has always been The Last Great Frontier – an exceptional experience for the adventurous traveller. No where else in the world – and I’ve travelled it widely – offers such a spectacular array of culture and colour. And, in all the time I’ve travelled the country, I’ve only ever been welcomed by the friendliest of people,” said Kirkland. 

According to Kirkland, his new book is the most prestigious publication he’s ever produced to reflect the status of the country’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

“It’s a large coffee table book – twice the size of my earlier books – which includes the best 150 photographs I’ve captured from throughout the country. I’d like to think it’s a unique testament to the country’s beauty, its tremendous cultural diversity, and the changes that have taken place since I first wandered the highlands around the time of the Mt Kare gold rush. 

Since I arrived here, I’ve been working closely with the TPA which has been an exceptional partner. A member of its staff has travelled with me over the length and breadth of the country ensuring the images we captured appealed to the markets likely to be interested in the experience offered by PNG”, said Kirkland. 

He also added that the book draws attention to what he considers to be the fragility of Papua New Guinea’s rich traditional culture.  

“Papua New Guinea is changing rapidly. It has moved from the stone-age to the space age in less than a lifetime, and I fear much of its traditional culture – the thread that links generations – is being lost in the process”, he said. 

 I’d like to think my book draws attention to both the value, and vulnerability, of traditional practices in this country,” said Kirkland. 

Coinciding with the release of the book, 150 large photographic prints by the photographer are being hung as a permanent collection throughout PNG’s K665 million Waigani Court Precinct. 

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) has secured more than 1,000 copies of renowned photographer David Kirkland’s newly released book, Papua New Guinea – The Last Great Frontier

The acquisition will support its promotional efforts locally and abroad, providing a powerful visual tool to inspire travel and highlight PNG as a unique destination for adventurous travellers. 

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo commended Kirkland on his new publication and he highlighted the importance of capturing PNG’s rich culture through photography.

“This publication is a visual chronicle of Papua New Guinea’s journey over the decades. As we celebrate 50 years of nationhood, David Kirkland’s work captures the essence of our people, culture, and natural beauty that continue to inspire travellers from around the world.

For over 20 years, David  Kirkland has been one of our strongest partners in sharing Papua New Guinea’s story with the world. His lens has helped position our country as The Last Great Frontier, a destination for those seeking adventure, authenticity, and cultural richness,” said Uvovo.◼️  

For more information, email: info@papuanewguinea.travel 

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Papua New Guinea Showcased Adventure and Culture at NATAS Holidays 2025 in Singapore

Papua New Guinea was featured as a Partner Destination at the 2025 NATAS Holidays Travel Fair, held from 15–17 August at the Singapore EXPO Halls.

Under the banner PNG: Adventure Meets Culture, the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), in collaboration with Air Niugini and Changi International Airport, and supported by the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS), highlighted the country’s unique cultural and adventure tourism experiences to the Singaporean market.

As part of the showcase, Papua New Guinea cultural performers took centre stage at Singapore’s iconic Jewel Changi Airport on Sunday, 17 August, with a free public performance at the Forest Valley attraction. Known for its lush indoor gardens and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, Jewel provided a stunning backdrop to celebrate PNG’s culture with travellers and visitors from around the world.

In addition to the live performance, a Papua New Guinea photo booth and display wall was installed at Changi International Airport in honour of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. The installation, featuring striking imagery of PNG, will remain on display for one month.

“Our presence at NATAS Holidays 2025 was a strong opportunity to share Papua New Guinea’s story with Singapore — a city that is itself a hub for international travellers,” said Joel Keimelo, Executive Manager – Marketing & Promotions, PNGTPA. “Through culture, adventure, and collaboration with valued partners like Air Niugini and Changi Airport, we invited travellers to discover the million different journeys Papua New Guinea has to offer.”

The NATAS Holidays Travel Fair is Singapore’s largest consumer travel showcase, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Papua New Guinea’s participation reinforced the country’s growing appeal as an authentic cultural and adventure destination in the Asia-Pacific region.◼️ 

For more information, email: marketing@papuanewguinea.travel 

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PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Corporation (SMEC) signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday, 27 June 2025 at the Kokoda Trail Motel in Port Moresby, formalising a partnership focused on advancing micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) development in PNG’s tourism sector.

The MoU sets a collaborative framework to deliver business development services including entrepreneurship training, business formalisation support, and compliance assistance tailored specifically for tourism MSMEs. The partnership will also support financial literacy, training of trainers, and shared use of regional business hubs across the country.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo and Small and Medium Enterprises Corporation’s (SMEC) Managing Director, Mr. Petrus Ralda, signed the MOU. The signing was witnessed by Executive Manager for Research and Business Development, Douglas Keari, and the Director of SME Business Advisory & Capacity Building, Diana W. Guria.

The MOU outlines key areas of cooperation, including the delivery of “Start Your Business” and “Improve Your Business” training programs, support for business registration processes, assistance with tax compliance, and development of customized training materials for tourism operators. Costs associated with training logistics, materials, and trainer expenditure will be shared.

Ralda praised the initiative as a vital step in bridging tourism and entrepreneurship.

“Tourism has enormous potential to lift communities out of poverty and drive sustainable growth. This MOU allows us to reach deeper into rural and remote areas where tourism opportunities exist but lack the technical support to flourish,” said Ralda.

The partnership also includes mechanisms for joint oversight, regular communication, and review of projects, ensuring transparency and strategic alignment throughout its implementation.

Speaking on behalf of the CEO of TPA, Keari welcomed the partnership, highlighting the benefits of the MOU for the tourism industry members.

“This MoU marks a new chapter in our efforts to strengthen the grassroots level of our tourism economy. For too long, aspiring tourism entrepreneurs have lacked access to the training, resources, and the support needed to grow. This collaboration with SMEC fills that gap by ensuring our MSMEs are equipped to thrive in both local and international markets,” said Keari.

He added that the partnership aligns with TPA’s broader mission to stimulate sustainable tourism development and build resilient local economies.

“Through this partnership, we are creating the foundation for a more inclusive tourism industry, one that empowers our people, protects indigenous knowledge, and supports long-term economic growth,” said Keari.

During the graduation Mr. Keari and Mr. Pundu also graduated as ILO SIYB Trainers. Since first participating in 2023 TPA has graduated 6 staff as trainers. The training will enable TPA to conduct business startup and management training to Tourism SMEs throughout the country.

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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) congratulated two of its staff for successfully graduating with their Training of Trainers (ToT) Certificate on Friday 27 June 2025 at the Kokoda Trail Motel, Port Moresby.

TPA’s Executive Manager for Research & Business Development, Douglas Keari and TPA’s Culture Officer, Jessie Pundu, join a certified network of SIYB Trainers responsible for delivering capability-building and business advisory services nationwide.

The training under the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) program took an intensive two-week training program facilitated by the Small and Medium Enterprises Corporation (SMEC), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The SIYB program is a globally recognized entrepreneurial training initiative designed by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to build the capacity of trainers who will provide business development training and support to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.

Keari highlighted on the positive aspects of the training.

“This certification is a personal milestone and it’s an opportunity to directly contribute to the growth of our tourism MSMEs. The training has equipped us with tools and that are practical and rooted in the realities of what our small business operators across PNG face,” said Keari.

Pundu said that he was excited and committed to demonstrating some of his newly acquired skills from the training to the industry members in tourism.

“I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity. The skills and knowledge I’ve gained will help me support grassroots tourism operators, especially in the cultural and community-based tourism space. I’m eager to start putting it all into action,” said Pundu.

Keari and Pundu will join a growing team of certified trainers within the organization. The duo will work alongside TPA’s Senior Partnership & Liaison Officer, Clare Atava Kolma, and Senior Business Development Officer, Dunstan Uluchoe, who both completed their ILO Trainers’ Certification in 2023.

The SIYB program covered a wide scope of responsibilities, including the promotion of entrepreneurship, training delivery, quality assurance, technical support, and ongoing mentorship of MSMEs. Trainers are expected to follow strict ILO and SMEC guidelines to ensure the consistency and quality of training delivery.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo commended both employees for their commitment to the training.

“This achievement reflects TPA’s commitment to investing in our human resources to better serve the tourism sector. I am proud of Douglas and Jessie for embracing this challenge. Their certification not only enhances our internal capabilities but also strengthens our outreach to communities and MSMEs that form the backbone of our tourism industry.”

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More than 70 Port Moresby youths were inspired by the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) tourism Awareness Session on Wednesday, 9 July, under the NCDC Urban Youth Employment Project II (UYEP) at Pari Village, Port Moresby.

The session was the first of a series of targeted trainings aimed at exposing unemployed and out-of-school youth to the tourism and hospitality sector in PNG.

This collaborative initiative, by TPA and NCDC UYEP, will extend to other training locations, including Saivara Community and PNG Defence Force Barracks, and will cover key focus areas such as Basic Tourism Awareness, Customer Service Skills, and Tour Guiding Techniques.

UYEP’s Internship Training Coordinator, Bruce Imata, expressed the importance of TPA’s involvement in the project.

“Training like this is transformational. It introduces our youth to a whole new world of possibilities in the tourism industry. Many of them have never thought about a career in tour guiding. TPA’s presence here shows that tourism isn’t just for international travellers, it’s a local opportunity, and it can change lives and provide alternative economic opportunities,” said Imata.

The session not only educated participants on the fundamentals of tourism but also included interactive discussions and real-life insights into hospitality, service delivery, destination promotion, and cultural heritage.

TPA and NCDC Urban Youth Employment Project II (UYEP) - 2

One of the youth participants, Terence Apa, from Goroka, said the experience has inspired him to return home and contribute to his community.

“I see now how powerful tourism can be. Back in Goroka, we have beautiful mountains, culture, and coffee farms. This training has given me the vision to go back and build a small guesthouse, maybe even run cultural tours. I want other young people in my village to dream big too,” said Apa.

The NCDC Urban Youth Employment Project II is a World Bank-supported initiative designed to address PNG’s growing youth unemployment and crime crisis. Its objective is to equip out-of-school and unemployed youth aged 16–29 with skills, job exposure, and income-generating opportunities.

In PNG, one in four youth (approximately two million) are classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).

Less than 16% of boys and 12% of girls complete secondary school, and youth are responsible for 80% of crimes committed in the country. In addition, 71% of the prison population is under the age of 25.

According to the United Nations Population Funds (UNFPA), 60% of PNGs current population is under the age of 25. These collaborative efforts provide opportunities for exposure for our youths who are not engaged to think outside of the box and venture into sectors such as tourism.

TPA CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, commended the youth for their participation and acknowledged the collaborative partnership for enhancing tourism awareness in Port Moresby.

“This initiative is a step into a doorway for our youth to participate in the formal economy. I thank the Policy & Strategic Planning Division for spearheading this engagement and for seeing tourism not just as an economic driver, but a youth empowerment tool to inspire and build potential tourism ambassadors that will become change agents for PNG in this industry,” said Uvovo.

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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) sponsored K10,000 towards the 3rd Jimi Marita Festival held at Karap Primary School in Middle Jimi, Jiwaka Province on Thursday 16 January celebrating the region’s unique cultural identity and the traditional superfood, Pandanus Conoideus (Marita).

TPA’s sponsorship supported the successful hosting of the event, which highlighted the cultural and health benefits of Marita. The National Agriculture Research Institute’s (NARI) research scientist Jonah Anton, spoke extensively about the significance of Marita.

“While Marita is not currently a priority crop for NARI, we have identified 16 species in Jimi, with the total across the province exceeding 20. It’s a vital food that is now gaining the recognition it deserves. Marita is a powerhouse of nutrients with incredible health benefits. It contains three key chemicals that make it a valuable food source: Carotene, which is essential for improving eye health; Tocopherol, a potent antioxidant that supports overall well-being; and Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, which are vital for heart health and brain function. These nutrients highlight why preserving and promoting Marita is so important for both our culture and our health. Preserving Marita is crucial as it’s a dying food, and its nutritional value and cultural importance cannot be overstated,” said Anton.

Marita Festival’s Chairman, Gabbi Apainga expressed his gratitude for TPA’s support.

“We are deeply thankful to TPA for their generous sponsorship. Their involvement ensures the success of this festival and helps shine a light on the cultural importance of Marita,” said Apainga.

Jiwaka Provincial Administrator, Rick Kogan commended both the organizing committee and TPA.

“I applaud Mr. Apainga and his team for orchestrating such a successful event. TPA’s commitment to preserving our culture through initiatives like this festival is truly commendable,” said Kogan.

During the event, SME and local producers and suppliers of Marita-based products, John and Lorin Kisan, shared their journey and vision.

“We officially registered our business this year, but we’ve always had a passion for Marita,” said Mr Kisan.
Mrs Kisan added that the production of Marita products helped the local communities.

“With the high cost of imported foods, especially oils, our Marita products—including oil, soup, and stock feed for pigs—provide a convenient and affordable option for local communities,” said Mrs Kisan.

A highlight of the festival was a ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the partnership established last year through an MOU signed between TPA and the Jimi District Development Authority. This officially launched TPA’s annual commitment to support the Jimi Marita Festival, ensuring its continuity and growth.

TPA CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo commended the organizing committee for their efforts.

“The success of this festival is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the organizing team. TPA is proud to support such initiatives that celebrate and preserve our unique cultural heritage, especially Marita and promote agritourism for the district,” said Uvovo.

📸 Thumbnail Caption (Left to right) Representative from the office of the Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture, William Lappa, Jiwaka Provincial Administrator, Rick Kogan, TPA’s Executive Officer to the CEO, Fred Pennington and Jimi Marita Festival Chairman, Gabbi Apainga during the official ribbon cutting to launch TPA’s annual commitment to the festival.

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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Kairuku District Development Authority (DDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday 17 January at the TPA office to unlock the district’s tourism potential through sustainable development, cultural preservation, and strategic marketing initiatives.

The partnership will focus on activities such as the PNG Flag Festival, the development of the Owsenwke Cultural Centre, and the hosting of game fishing competitions. Capacity-building programs, including tour guide and guest management training, are also planned to equip locals with the skills to support and sustain tourism development.

Member for Kairuku District, Hon. Peter Isoaimo, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, calling it a significant step toward positioning Kairuku as a key tourism destination in Papua New Guinea.

“Our district is blessed with diverse cultural and natural attractions, from Yule Island’s historical significance to our vibrant festivals and pristine coastlines. This MoU paves the way for these assets to be showcased to the world, bringing long-term benefits to our communities,” said Isoaimo.

He reaffirmed the DDA’s commitment to working closely with TPA to ensure the success of the initiatives outlined in the MoU, noting that tourism can drive positive change by creating jobs, empowering communities, and strengthening cultural pride. TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, emphasized the transformative potential of the partnership.

“This MoU is a milestone for both TPA and Kairuku DDA. Together, we will develop a vibrant and sustainable tourism sector that celebrates the district’s rich cultural heritage while providing economic opportunities for local communities,” said Uvovo.

He highlighted the importance of a collaborative approach in achieving national tourism goals outlined in Vision 2050 and the Tourism Sector Development Plan (2022-2026).

The MoU sets a clear framework for governance, accountability, and collaborative action. It includes the establishment of a Joint Milestones Matrix (JMM) to track progress and ensure that the development initiatives remain aligned with national and district goals.

“This partnership reflects our shared vision for a sustainable tourism industry that empowers local communities while protecting our cultural and natural heritage,” Uvovo added.

Uvovo also said that, with a roadmap in place and the joint commitment of TPA and Kairuku DDA, the district is poised to become a thriving hub for cultural and eco-tourism, bringing PNG one step closer to realizing its tourism potential.

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Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – October 31, 2024 – Holiday Inn & Suites, nestled in the vibrant Waigani District, proudly launched its rebranded restaurant, Faya Haus, on Friday, October 25, 2024.

Formerly known as Kopi Haus, the restaurant has been a cornerstone of the hotel’s culinary offerings since its opening over a decade ago.

The grand unveiling drew over 200 esteemed guests from various industries, who gathered to celebrate the transformation of the newly renovated restaurant. Emphasizing its commitment to excellence as “small to medium-sized event specialists,” the Holiday Inn events team orchestrated an extraordinary ambiance, bathed in vivid yellows, oranges, and reds.

From exquisite flowers sourced from Goroko Province to striking flame-inspired decor, every detail was meticulously crafted to create an unforgettable experience. 

Digital screens showcased mesmerizing whisps of fire, while an engaging countdown reveal set the stage for the evening’s festivities. 

Guests marvelled at the remarkable transformation that welcomed them to Faya Haus.

“As we continue to evolve our brand presence, it’s essential that our culinary experience reflects that growth,” said Mauro Leone, Portfolio General Manager for IHG PNG. 

He added, “The name ‘Faya Haus’ resonated with our team, capturing the vibrant spirit we aim to embody. With our recent renovations, we’re excited to introduce a wood-fired pizza oven and Argentinian grills, allowing us to serve delectable pizzas and premium char-grilled steaks that we believe will delight our guests.”

The menu at Faya Haus has also been refreshed allowing for a culinary fusion of bold Papua New Guinean flavors and international cooking styles and ingredients. 

Guests dined on sweet potato and pumpkin ceviche, pulled lamb and hummus on pita bread, bite sized cheese burgers, lamb cutlets, BBQ beef brisket, fillet mignon and wagyu tri-tip to name a few.

To add to the culinary excitement of the event, Faya Haus also launched its brand-new cake menu and set up a dessert room for all guests to freely walk into and sample some of their sweet delights. 

On offer were freshly baked apple pies, red velvet cake. Fuit gateau and naked mocca cake to name a few. 

Mauro also added, “We are excited to present a menu that celebrates the rich flavors of Papua New Guinea while incorporating international influences. Our aim is to create a memorable dining experience that delights the palate and showcases the best of both worlds.” 

Faya Haus Restaurant is open Monday to Sunday from 7am to 10:30pm.


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More than five prominent European Travel Agents travelled to Papua New Guinea to experience PNG’s unique birdlife and picturesque landscapes from Wednesday 9 to Wednesday 16 October this year.

The exclusive familiarization (FAM) tour was a tour organized by the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), in collaboration with Air Niugini (PX) and Flight Directors UK.

This trip was the outcome of TPA’s participation in the UK’s Global Bird Fair event earlier this year, which generated over 50 leads and sales, sparking international interest in PNG’s vast bird biodiversity. The coordinated FAM tour was organized by the Managing Director for Flight Directors UK, Air Niugini’s General Sales Agent (GSA), Vikky Joyce, alongside representatives from TPA.

The tour’s aim was to showcase PNG’s potential as a world-class bird-watching destination, with an itinerary designed to maximize exposure to diverse bird species and pristine habitats across renowned locations such as Walindi, Magic Mountain LodgeKumul LodgeRondon Ridge, Lake Murray, and Variarata National Park.

General Manager of Spazio and Vice President of Commercial for Distal & ITR Group, Francesco Veneziano, who was a part of the tour, commended TPA and PX for the opportunity for him to see PNG’s tourism potential.

“I am deeply grateful to PX, TPA, and our sponsors for providing me with this opportunity. This FAM tour has equipped us with the firsthand insights we need to champion Papua New Guinea’s eco-tourism potential in Italy and beyond.
The Italian market holds tremendous potential for sustainable tourism in PNG. We’re committed to developing tourist traffic that values PNG’s pristine environments as a final frontier of natural beauty—a journey that will bring great benefits to all involved,” said Veneziano.

Account Manager for Flight Directors, Alison Sorrell, who was also on the tour, highlighted PNG’s remarkable beaty.

“It was thrilling to explore PNG’s beautiful islands, and Walindi Resort was truly amazing. The large bungalows, fully equipped with all necessary facilities, were set in stunning gardens. Waking up to the sound of birds and watching the sunrise over the ocean was unforgettable.

“We were even able to observe the King of Saxony up close, which was truly amazing! This trip has been a memorable experience and an invaluable introduction to Papua New Guinea’s potential for bird tourism,” said Sorrell.

Walindi Plantation Resort, known for its traditional bungalows, breathtaking ocean views, and nearby rainforests, offered a welcoming start to the itinerary. Birding excursions revealed spectacular species such as the Raggiana Bird of Paradise and Blue Bird of Paradise, thrilling the participants in the tour, including BBC Wildlife TV presenter Mike Dilger and acclaimed bird photographer Laurens Steijn.

Bob Bates from Trans Niugini Tours added another level of adventure by arranging light aircraft transport to Lake Murray in the Western Province, where Bensbach Wildlife Lodge, served as an ideal base for bird-watching and wildlife photography.
Local community involvement was integral to the tour’s success, with residents and guides sharing their knowledge of PNG’s birdlife and engaging directly with visitors. This initiative aligns closely with TPA’s sustainable tourism goals, which prioritize protecting PNG’s natural habitats and enriching the economic prospects of local communities.

Future efforts by TPA will continue to focus on attracting special-interest groups such as photographers and nature enthusiasts, diversifying tourism opportunities while promoting the conservation of PNG’s environmental.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, commended the efforts of his team, PX and Flight Directors.

“Our partnership with Air Niugini and Flight Directors has proven that Papua New Guinea holds significant potential in the birding and eco-tourism market.

We look forward to expanding these initiatives, sharing PNG’s unique natural wonders with a global audience, and supporting sustainable tourism practices that benefit all,” said Uvovo.

Uvovo also highlighted the importance of the tour to attract special tour groups to experience PNG’s million different journey.
“Our hope is that their firsthand accounts and enthusiasm will spark a ripple effect, positioning PNG as a leading bird-watching and nature-based tourism destination.

The goal of this FAM tour was to showcase PNG’s remarkable bird biodiversity to industry professionals who can promote our unique country globally, and it can only be done when we provide an authentic experience of our landscapes and endemic bird species,” said Uvovo.

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