Traditional canoe crews taking part in the Kenu and Kundu Festival

Kenu & Kundu Festival, 2018 — ABC News

National Kenu & Kundu Festival · Alotau
6–8 November 2026 · Dates listed by PNG Tourism

The National Kenu & Kundu Festival is listed by PNG Tourism for 6–8 November 2026. Confirm the programme before booking.

Stay & do · Alotau & mainland Flights & arrival (GUR)

Wagawaga war canoes, 2018. Amanda Cotton / PNG Tourism.

04 / LIVING MARITIME CULTURE

Knowledge carried forward.

A canoe is transport, craftsmanship and community knowledge in one. At Alotau’s National Kenu & Kundu Festival, canoe crews, dancers, drummers and artisans bring maritime traditions into a shared public celebration.

Established in 2003, the festival supports the transmission of skills and cultural practice between generations. Ask before photographing people or ceremonies, and buy work directly from local makers where possible.

See the official festival listing

04 / PRACTICAL FIELD NOTES

Getting here.
Moving with the bay.

Travel well. Connect locally.
Give island time the time it needs.

Air Niugini Airbus A220 on the apron at Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby — Air Niugini at Jacksons, Port Moresby — not Gurney Airport. Photo: Air Niugini

01 / PLAN YOUR VISIT

Flights & arrival (GUR)

Air Niugini and PNG Air publish services between Port Moresby and Gurney Airport. Check current flight days and availability directly with the airlines. Pre-arrange your airport transfer with your lodge or host and confirm the meeting point and journey time.

Air Niugini: Port Moresby–Alotau PNG Air flight schedules Gurney Airport photographs · JICA

Vendors and shoppers among tables of fresh produce inside Alotau Town Market — Alotau Town Market · November 2020 project account. Photo: Embassy of Japan in Papua New Guinea / MOFASource accessed 24 October 2026 · WebP conversion.

02 / PLAN YOUR VISIT

Money & connectivity

Carry kina (PGK) for village stays, markets and local transport. Confirm payment arrangements with your host before leaving town. Mobile coverage and internet can be limited in remote areas; download maps and essential contacts before travelling.

PNG Tourism: travel tips PNG Tourism: planning advice

Visitors walking along Kiriwina’s jetty towards a palm-lined beach in the Trobriand Islands — Arriving at Kiriwina, Trobriand Islands. Photo: PNG Tourism Promotion Authority

03 / PLAN YOUR VISIT

Sea transfers & dinghies

Arrange island transfers with an experienced local operator. Before departure, confirm the weather, lifejackets, fuel, communications and return plan with your skipper. Allow for changes or delays when conditions are unsuitable.

PNG National Weather Service: coastal forecasts PNG Tourism: local guides and planning

Pack dry bags for electronics and ask about your operator’s weather contingency.

A yacht at anchor beside the forested limestone cliffs of Panasia Island in the Louisiades — Panasia lagoon · 2012 cruising journal. A photograph, not a forecast. Photo: SY Harlequin

04 / PLAN YOUR VISIT

Weather & sea conditions

Check current coastal forecasts and warnings before each sea journey. Wind, swell, rain and visibility can change travel plans throughout the year. Follow local operational advice and leave room in your itinerary for weather delays.

PNG National Weather Service Coastal waters forecasts