The Kokopo Beach Bungalow

Tours & Activities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

East New Britain and in particular the Gazelle Peninsula is rich in history, culture, recreational opportunities, and environmental diversity.

History:  

Kokopo and Rabaul towns both have a remarkable history originating from the occupation by three colonial powers being Germany, Australia, and Japan. The administrative headquarters of these various colonial powers interchanged regularly between Rabaul and Kokopo. Reminders and remnants of these ruling powers are still obvious throughout the district with Bitapaka War Cemetary, the Kokopo War Museum, Admiral Yamamoto's Bunker and Japanese barge tunnels offering keen insights into days gone by.

We are in fact located on the site of the original Kokopo Hotel when it was under German administration.
This hotel was called"Hotel Deutjcher Hof".

Culture:

The culture of New Britain is diverse and unique. The area is populated by five ethnic groups being the Tolai, Baining, Pomio, Taulil and Sulka people. The customs and traditions of these groups is still evident today with the paying of bride price ceremonies, and breaking of TABU (shell money) still relevant in today's society. Big men who have won their prestige through wealth or military prowess and a male secret society play an important role in village life. Ceremonies feature leaf-draped, anonymous figures topped by masks referred to as the Tumbuan and DukDuk.

 

Recreational:

East New Britain abounds with outdoor recreational opportunities. From fantastic fishing, snorkelling, and diving to trekking, mountain climbing and caving there is literally a limitless range of activities to keep you occupied. A helicopter ride over the area will give you an appreciation of the breathtaking nature of this land.

 

Environmental: 

Where else in the world could you get up close and personal with an active volcano. Rabaul is literally built on the crest of a dormant volcano with one of the deepest harbours in the world. In 1994, the active Mt Tavurvur erupted and still sends out shots of steam today.

For bird watchers and nature lovers we have an abundance of bird life with one of our most well known, the Megapod birds, which lay their eggs in volcanic ash. Locals mine for these eggs by digging down through metres of ash to find them - a true test of resiliance and committment.

We offer a variety of tours which can be tailored to suit your interests.

Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort has been in the business of tours for many years trading as Taklam Tours and has a sound reputation for delivering a quality product. We place a high priority on safety and will assess all conditions before undertaking an activity.  Our tours include a tour guide and driver.

All tours are undertaken at the risk of the participant. We advise all visitors to take out their own travel insurance.

 

Festivals & Culture

In East New Britain we have spectacular cultural festivals and ceremonies which are not seen anywhere else in the world.

 

Tolai Society: 

In Tolai society, Tumbuans and Duk Duks are symbolic of spirits which form part of the rich tapestry of the local traditions and culture. These representations of spirits are highly respected in today's society. In this age of mobile phones, internet connectivity, and Facebook, it is the tumbuan and dukduk which still commands the attention of our young people. For those who have run foul of the law, a tumbuan at your doorstep can be a humbling experience. The Duke of York Islands are home to many of these supernatural beings and at special ceremonies they will be paraded amongst much chanting and singing.

 

Bainings Firedance:

The Bainings people are from the mountain. Legend has it that they were driven deep into the forests when the Tolais migrated to East New Britain from Namatanai on New Ireland. The Bainings Firedance is a dance which symbolises this event. It involves "çreatures'' represented by masked men who dance in a fire all night until the fire dies out. The dancers are trance-like and the chanting and singing gives the performance a supernatural quality. It is unique to this area and is a ceremony performed only on rare occassions. It is a spectacular site to see.

 

 

So come and join us to experience this unique event.