What is Port Moresby's status in Papua New Guinea?

Port Moresby serves as the capital and largest city of Papua New Guinea. It is also recognized as one of the largest cities in the southwestern Pacific region outside of Australia and New Zealand.

Where is Port Moresby geographically situated?

The city is located on the shores of the Gulf of Papua, specifically on the southwestern coast of the Papuan Peninsula on the island of New Guinea.

When did Port Moresby begin to emerge as a significant location?

Port Moresby started to develop as a trade center during the latter half of the 19th century.

What was Port Moresby's strategic importance during World War II?

During World War II, Port Moresby was a key objective for Imperial Japanese forces between 1942 and 1943. It served as a staging point and air base intended to sever Australia's connections with Southeast Asia and the Americas.

What is a 'primate city', and how does it apply to Port Moresby?

A primate city is one that is disproportionately large and dominant within its country. Port Moresby is considered a primate city due to its significant population and influence compared to other cities in Papua New Guinea.

What were the population figures for Port Moresby according to the 2011 census and a 2020 estimate?

The 2011 census recorded Port Moresby's population at 364,145 inhabitants. An unofficial estimate for 2020 placed the population at 383,000.

Who were the original inhabitants of the area where Port Moresby was founded?

The area where the city was established has been inhabited for centuries by the Motu-Koitabu people.

Who was the first European to sight Port Moresby, and in what year?

The first European to see the area was Royal Navy Captain John Moresby in 1873.

Who is Port Moresby named after?

The city is named in honor of Captain John Moresby's father, Admiral of the Fleet Sir Fairfax Moresby.

How is Port Moresby administratively organized within Papua New Guinea?

Although Port Moresby is geographically surrounded by Central Province, it is not part of it. Instead, it constitutes the National Capital District, and its traditional landowners, the Motu and Koitabu people, are represented by the Motu Koita Assembly.

What significant international event did Port Moresby host in 2018?

Port Moresby hosted the APEC summit in November 2018.

What concerns were associated with Port Moresby hosting the 2018 APEC summit?

Concerns were raised regarding security for the APEC summit, primarily due to the capital city's reputation for violent crime.

When and by whom was the harbor of Port Moresby first charted and named?

The harbor was charted and named by Captain John Moresby in February 1873, during a survey of the southern shore of New Guinea. He named it in honor of his father.

What was the estimated indigenous population in the Port Moresby area when Europeans first arrived?

Europeans estimated the local population to be around 2,000 people at the time of their arrival.

Describe the traditional inhabitants of Hanuabada, the largest settlement near Port Moresby.

Hanuabada consisted of five villages populated by the Motu and Koita people. The Motu people were traditionally coastal dwellers, while the Koita people came from inland hills, and there was significant intermarriage between the two groups.

What role did the London Missionary Society play in Port Moresby's early history?

In November 1873, Polynesian teachers were sent to Port Moresby by the London Missionary Society. They were later joined by Reverend William George Lawes in November 1874, who established a mission house. Port Moresby was seen as a vital trade center for reaching more people.

What event in 1877 sparked anticipation of a gold rush near Port Moresby?

Signs of gold were discovered at the junction of the Laloki and Goldie Rivers, which were within walking distance of Port Moresby, leading to expectations of a gold rush.

What was the outcome of the anticipated gold rush in 1878?

Entrepreneur William Bairstow Ingham established a store in anticipation, and around 100 miners arrived. However, most miners departed by the end of the year, having found no gold and suffering from diseases.

What action did Sir Thomas McIlwraith, Premier of Queensland, take in March 1883 regarding New Guinea?

Hearing of potential German annexation, McIlwraith ordered Henry Chester to sail to New Guinea and formally claim possession in the name of Her Majesty, except for the Dutch-occupied portion.

When and where was the Union Jack raised to claim British possession of Port Moresby?

The Union Jack was raised at Port Moresby on April 4, 1883, by Henry Chester, in the presence of Europeans and Papuans.

What was the basis for the proclamation of a British protectorate over southeastern New Guinea in 1884?

Following an agreement for the Australian colonies to contribute £15,000 annually for administration, Commodore James Erskine received orders to proclaim the protectorate. Deputy Commissioner Hugh Romilly had already made a proclamation on October 23, 1884.

Who selected Port Moresby as the colonial capital, and when?

Special Commissioner Peter Scratchley arrived in August 1885 and designated Port Moresby as the site for the colonial capital.

What policy regarding non-indigenous residents was implemented in Port Moresby starting in 1886?

The administration began a policy of segregating non-indigenous residential areas, which continued until the early 1960s. A two-mile fence was erected around the government land.

What urban planning occurred in Port Moresby in 1886?

Surveyor Walter Cuthbertson laid out a gridiron plan for two townships: Granville West, situated between the harbor and Ela Beach, and Granville East, located south of the government bungalow. Despite these plans, the settlement continued to be known as Port Moresby.

How did Australian rule impact Port Moresby's development between 1906 and 1941?

After the Papua Act transferred Papua to Australian rule in 1906, Port Moresby experienced slow growth. Development was concentrated on the peninsula, with gradual improvements to port facilities and services. By 1912, radio links to Thursday Island were established, electricity was introduced in 1925, and a piped water supply was provided in 1941.

What was the role of Papuan men during World War II in relation to the conflict?

During World War II, some Papuan men enlisted in the Papua Infantry Battalion, while others served as porters, providing supply support to Allied and Japanese armies during difficult jungle movements.

What was the status of Port Moresby as an Allied base during World War II?

By September 1942, Port Moresby was a significant Allied base complex, hosting thousands of troops. It served as the last Allied bastion on the island and a crucial staging point for offensive operations against Japanese advances.

When was the Territory of Papua and New Guinea formed, and what was Port Moresby's role?

The Territory of Papua and New Guinea was established in 1945 by amalgamating Papua and the former German New Guinea. Port Moresby became the capital of this new territory and a central point for expanding public services.

What significant administrative change occurred for Port Moresby in 1972?

Port Moresby was granted city status in 1972, with Oala Oala-Rarua becoming its first Lord Mayor.

What developments occurred in the Waigani suburb following Papua New Guinea's independence?

Following Papua New Guinea's independence in September 1975, new government, intellectual, and cultural buildings were constructed in Waigani to complement and eventually replace facilities in downtown Port Moresby. This included the National Parliament Building, opened in 1984.

How has the population of the Port Moresby area changed since independence?

The population of the Port Moresby area expanded rapidly after independence, increasing from 120,000 in 1980 to 195,000 by 1990.

What is the Köppen classification for Port Moresby's climate, and what are its key characteristics?

Port Moresby has a tropical savanna climate, classified as 'Aw' under the Köppen climate classification. It experiences relatively constant temperatures throughout the year and is the driest place in New Guinea, with an average annual rainfall of 898.8 mm (35.39 inches).

Describe the wet and dry seasons in Port Moresby.

The wet season in Port Moresby typically runs from December to May, followed by a dry season that covers the remaining six months. This pattern is influenced by the south-easterly trade winds and the surrounding high mountains.

What are the average temperature ranges in Port Moresby?

Average high temperatures range between 28 and 32 °C (82.4 to 89.6 °F), while average low temperatures remain consistently around 23 °C (73.4 °F) with minimal seasonal variation.

What is the record high temperature ever recorded in Port Moresby?

The highest temperature recorded in Port Moresby was 36.3 °C (97.3 °F).

What is the record low temperature ever recorded in Port Moresby?

The lowest temperature recorded in Port Moresby was 10.4 °C (50.7 °F).

What is the average annual sunshine duration in Port Moresby?

Port Moresby receives an average of 2,463 hours of sunshine per year.

How is Port Moresby organized administratively at the district and local levels?

Port Moresby constitutes the single district of the National Capital District, which is further divided into three Local Level Government (LLG) areas: Moresby North-East, Moresby North-West, and Moresby South.

What is the function of the Motu Koita Assembly in relation to the National Capital District?

The Motu Koita Assembly represents the traditional landowners of Port Moresby, the Motu and Koitabu people. It governs their traditional lands and inhabitants and its Chair also serves as the Deputy Governor of the National Capital District.

What is the distinction between 'Port Moresby' as the urbanized area and 'Town'?

While 'Port Moresby' can refer to the entire urbanized National Capital District, the term 'Town' specifically denotes the main business area within the city.

What changes have occurred in the original town center of Port Moresby since the 1990s?

Since the 1990s, the original town center has shifted from having restaurants and nightlife to being primarily an office center, remaining prosperous in that capacity.

What is the current state of the suburb of Boroko?

Boroko, once the commercial hub of Port Moresby, is now described as idle, with many former shopping buildings standing empty.

What is notable about Hanuabada village in Port Moresby?

Hanuabada village is recognized for providing a safe haven for LGBT individuals within Papua New Guinea.

How is Port Moresby characterized in terms of safety by Al Jazeera?

Al Jazeera has described Port Moresby as 'one of the most dangerous cities in the world'.

What security measures are common in Port Moresby homes due to crime?

Many homes in Port Moresby are equipped with substantial security features, including large fences covered in metal sheeting, locked gates, and internal steel security doors.

What assessment has been made of Port Moresby's urban security?

The UN Global Compact Cities Programme assessed Port Moresby's urban security as 'critical' using the Circles of Sustainability method.

How is transportation managed within Port Moresby?

Within the city, transportation is primarily handled by buses and privately owned taxis.

What is the primary airport serving Port Moresby, and what other role does it fulfill?

Port Moresby is served by Jacksons International Airport, which is the country's largest international airport and also serves as the base for the Papua New Guinea Defence Force Air Wing.

Why are internal flights crucial for transportation in Papua New Guinea?

Internal flights are vital for connecting different parts of Papua New Guinea because the national highway system is not fully developed or interconnected, meaning many towns lack direct road access to Port Moresby.

What is the economic significance of natural resources for Papua New Guinea?

Natural resources account for two-thirds of Papua New Guinea's export earnings, although a lack of development has sometimes led to foreign control of resource sites.

What major economic development occurred in 2004 involving a US oil company?

In 2004, a United States oil company began exporting oil, marking the largest project in Papua New Guinea's history and significantly increasing its export revenue potential.

Port Moresby Wiki: Port Moresby: Navigating the Heart of Papua New Guinea

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Overview

The Capital Hub

Port Moresby, known colloquially as "Pom City" or simply "Moresby," serves as the capital and largest city of Papua New Guinea. Situated on the shores of the Gulf of Papua, it is a significant urban center in the southwestern Pacific region, comparable in scale to cities like Jayapura outside of Australia and New Zealand. Its strategic location on the Papuan Peninsula makes it a vital economic and administrative hub.

Population and Significance

As of a 2020 estimate, Port Moresby's population was approximately 383,000, with the wider urban area estimated at 700,000. This concentration of population and influence positions it as a primate city within Papua New Guinea. The city's development began as a trade center in the latter half of the 19th century.

Geographic Context

While geographically surrounded by the Central Province, Port Moresby constitutes its own administrative entity: the National Capital District. The city's location is characterized by its coastal setting on the Gulf of Papua, on the southern coast of the island of New Guinea.

Historical Trajectory

European Discovery and Early Settlement

European contact began in February 1873 when HMS Basilisk surveyed the area. Captain John Moresby charted the harbor, naming it in honor of his father, Admiral Fairfax Moresby. The region was already inhabited by the Motu-Koitabu people, with Hanuabada being a significant settlement. The London Missionary Society established a presence shortly after, with Reverend William George Lawes arriving in 1874.

Colonial Administration

Queensland's Premier, Sir Thomas McIlwraith, ordered the annexation of southeastern New Guinea in March 1883. Following colonial agreement, the protectorate was formally proclaimed at Port Moresby on October 23, 1884. Peter Scratchley arrived in August 1885, selecting Port Moresby as the colonial capital. The Australian government assumed control under the Papua Act in 1906, leading to gradual improvements in port facilities and infrastructure.

World War II Significance

During World War II, Port Moresby became a critical Allied base and a primary objective for Japanese forces aiming to disrupt supply lines to Australia. It served as a key staging point for Allied offensives. General Douglas MacArthur established his headquarters here from November 1942 to October 1944, highlighting its strategic importance in the Pacific theater.

Post-Independence Development

Following Papua New Guinea's independence in September 1975, Port Moresby continued as the capital. New administrative and cultural centers were developed in Waigani. Despite challenges, including neglect of some government buildings, significant urban redevelopment and infrastructure upgrades have occurred, particularly in the 21st century, including preparations for major international events like the APEC summit.

Climate Profile

Tropical Savanna Conditions

Port Moresby experiences a tropical savanna climate (Köppen: Aw), characterized by consistently warm temperatures year-round. The city is notably drier than much of New Guinea, receiving an average annual rainfall of approximately 898.8 mm (35.39 inches).

Temperatures typically range from highs of 28°C to 32°C (82.4°F to 89.6°F) and lows around 23°C (73.4°F), with minimal seasonal variation.

Seasonal Patterns

The wet season spans from December to May, influenced by southeasterly trade winds. The dry season covers the remaining six months. This pattern is influenced by the coastal location and surrounding mountainous terrain.

Average relative humidity remains high, generally between 75% and 82% throughout the year.

Climate Data Summary

The table below provides a detailed overview of Port Moresby's climate data, including average temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine hours.

Climate Data for Port Moresby
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Record High °C (°F)	36.2 (97.2)	36.1 (97.0)	35.4 (95.7)	34.2 (93.6)	33.8 (92.8)	33.9 (93.0)	33.3 (91.9)	33.8 (92.8)	34.8 (94.6)	35.5 (95.9)	36.3 (97.3)	36.3 (97.3)	36.3 (97.3)
Mean Max °C (°F)	32.1 (89.8)	31.6 (88.9)	31.4 (88.5)	31.3 (88.3)	31.0 (87.8)	30.3 (86.5)	29.9 (85.8)	30.3 (86.5)	31.0 (87.8)	32.0 (89.6)	32.5 (90.5)	32.4 (90.3)	31.3 (88.3)
Daily Mean °C (°F)	27.4 (81.3)	27.3 (81.1)	27.1 (80.8)	27.0 (80.6)	26.9 (80.4)	26.1 (79.0)	25.7 (78.3)	26.1 (79.0)	26.5 (79.7)	27.5 (81.5)	27.6 (81.7)	27.8 (82.0)	26.9 (80.4)
Mean Min °C (°F)	23.7 (74.7)	23.5 (74.3)	23.4 (74.1)	23.5 (74.3)	23.5 (74.3)	23.1 (73.6)	22.4 (72.3)	22.6 (72.7)	23.2 (73.8)	23.5 (74.3)	23.6 (74.5)	23.7 (74.7)	23.3 (73.9)
Record Low °C (°F)	20.4 (68.7)	18.8 (65.8)	18.3 (64.9)	16.8 (62.2)	14.5 (58.1)	14.5 (58.1)	10.4 (50.7)	14.8 (58.6)	14.4 (57.9)	16.3 (61.3)	16.0 (60.8)	19.6 (67.3)	10.4 (50.7)
Avg. Rainfall mm (inches)	192.2 (7.57)	140.6 (5.54)	189.8 (7.47)	105.2 (4.14)	56.2 (2.21)	21.6 (0.85)	13.8 (0.54)	12.0 (0.47)	14.4 (0.57)	15.2 (0.60)	40.0 (1.57)	97.8 (3.85)	898.8 (35.38)
Avg. Rainy Days (≥ 0.1 mm)	18	16	18	11	9	6	4	4	5	5	6	12	114
Avg. Humidity (%)	79	81	81	82	81	79	77	76	76	76	75	77	78
Avg. Sunshine Hours	182	158	184	200	211	200	203	222	213	231	243	216	2,463
Source: World Meteorological Organization, Deutscher Wetterdienst

Administrative Divisions

National Capital District Structure

Port Moresby comprises the entirety of the National Capital District (NCD). This district is further divided into three Local Level Government (LLG) areas: Moresby North-East, Moresby North-West, and Moresby South. These LLGs are subdivided into wards and census units for administrative purposes.

Motu Koita Assembly

The Motu Koita Assembly represents the traditional landowners of Port Moresby, the Motu and Koitabu people. Established by parliamentary act, it is unique in Papua New Guinea and governs traditional lands and inhabitants within ten recognized villages. The Chair of this Assembly also serves as the Deputy Governor of the NCD.

Key Suburbs and Areas

The city encompasses numerous suburbs, each with distinct characteristics. "Town" refers to the central business district, while areas like Boroko, once a commercial hub, and the affluent residential zones along the coast showcase the city's urban fabric. Other notable areas include Hanuabada, Koki, Waigani (housing governmental and cultural institutions), Gordons, and Gerehu.

Security Considerations

Urban Security Challenges

Port Moresby faces significant challenges related to urban security and crime. Reports have characterized it as one of the world's more dangerous cities, leading to security measures such as high fences and gated communities. The UN Global Compact's assessment classified the city's urban security as 'critical'.

Travel on foot within the city and its suburbs is generally discouraged due to law and order issues.

Mobility and Infrastructure

Air Travel Dominance

Given the limited development of national highways, air travel is crucial for inter-city transport within Papua New Guinea. Port Moresby is served by Jacksons International Airport, the country's primary international gateway and a base for the Papua New Guinea Defence Force Air Wing. Numerous domestic flights connect Port Moresby to other major towns.

Local Transportation

Within the city, transportation relies on buses and taxis. The redevelopment of the waterfront area and upgrades to sporting facilities, including those for the 2015 Pacific Games and the 2016 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, reflect ongoing infrastructure development.

Economic Landscape

Resource-Based Economy

Papua New Guinea's economy is heavily reliant on natural resources, which constitute a significant portion of its export earnings. While rich in resources, development challenges persist. Major projects, such as oil exports commencing in 2004, have boosted the nation's revenue potential. International aid and investment from countries like Australia, Singapore, Japan, and China play a vital role.

Urban Development and Investment

Port Moresby has seen substantial investment in housing, commercial buildings, and infrastructure. The hosting of the 2018 APEC meeting brought global attention and further development initiatives. The national airline, Air Niugini, and Airlines PNG are headquartered at Jacksons International Airport.

Sporting Venues and Events

Premier Facilities

Port Moresby hosts several key sporting venues. The Sir John Guise Stadium, rebuilt in 2015, is the premier facility with a capacity of 15,000. The National Football Stadium (formerly Lloyd Robson Oval) also seats 15,000 and hosts major rugby league events, including Rugby League World Cup matches. PMRL Stadium is utilized for football.

Hosting Major Games

The city has a history of hosting significant regional sporting events. It hosted the South Pacific Games in 1969 and 1991. More recently, Port Moresby hosted the 2015 Pacific Games, featuring 28 sports and participation from 24 Pacific nations. Papua New Guinea topped the medal count at these games.

Cricket and Other Sports

Amini Park is a dedicated cricket ground, named after the Amini family prominent in PNG cricket. The ground has hosted international matches for both men's and women's national teams. Cricket PNG, the sport's governing body, is headquartered in the city. Basketball and rugby league are also popular, with teams like the Port Moresby Vipers and the PNG Hunters.

Educational Institutions

International and Local Education

The International Education Agency (IEA) operates several international schools, including Port Moresby International School (POMIS), which caters to nearly 1,000 students from Grades 7 to 12. Other IEA schools include Korobosea, Boroko, and Ela Murray International Schools. The city also hosts TAFE college programs.

International Partnerships

Sister City Affiliations

Port Moresby maintains formal partnerships with several international cities, fostering cultural and economic exchange:

Jinan, China
Suva, Fiji
Townsville, Australia
Long Beach, United States

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References

Our first city Papua New Guinea Post-Courier, 14 April 1972

Taim Bipo

Hubert Murray stadium work on schedule

Station ID for Port Moresby is 92035 Use this station ID to locate the sunshine duration

A full list of references for this article are available at the Port Moresby Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This content has been generated by an AI model for educational purposes, drawing upon information from Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date.

This is not travel advice. Information regarding safety, security, or accessibility should be verified with current, official sources before planning any travel or activities.

The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Port Moresby

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

🏙️ The Capital Hub

📈 Population and Significance

🌐 Geographic Context

Historical Trajectory ⏳

🧭 European Discovery and Early Settlement

🇬🇧 Colonial Administration

⚔️ World War II Significance

🌟 Post-Independence Development

Climate Profile 🌡️

☀️ Tropical Savanna Conditions

🌧️ Seasonal Patterns

📊 Climate Data Summary

Administrative Divisions 📍

🏛️ National Capital District Structure

🤝 Motu Koita Assembly

🏘️ Key Suburbs and Areas

Security Considerations ⚠️

🚨 Urban Security Challenges

Mobility and Infrastructure 🚗

✈️ Air Travel Dominance

🚌 Local Transportation

Economic Landscape 💰

🌳 Resource-Based Economy

🏗️ Urban Development and Investment

Sporting Venues and Events 🏆

🏟️ Premier Facilities

🏅 Hosting Major Games

🏏 Cricket and Other Sports

Educational Institutions 🎓

🏫 International and Local Education

International Partnerships 🔗

🌍 Sister City Affiliations

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

The Capital Hub

Population and Significance

Geographic Context

Historical Trajectory

European Discovery and Early Settlement

Colonial Administration

World War II Significance

Post-Independence Development

Climate Profile

Tropical Savanna Conditions

Seasonal Patterns

Climate Data Summary

Administrative Divisions

National Capital District Structure

Motu Koita Assembly

Key Suburbs and Areas

Security Considerations

Urban Security Challenges

Mobility and Infrastructure

Air Travel Dominance

Local Transportation

Economic Landscape

Resource-Based Economy

Urban Development and Investment

Sporting Venues and Events

Premier Facilities

Hosting Major Games

Cricket and Other Sports

Educational Institutions

International and Local Education

International Partnerships

Sister City Affiliations

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice