Plans to upgrade airport set

THE upgrading of Tokua Airport to an international standard is among plans for the long-term growth of tourism and the hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) meeting this year.
Minister for Tourism and Kokopo MP Emil Tammur said that the province was focused on these two areas apart from other infrastructure developments such as more hotels.
“In East New Britain, we only have 200-plus beds up to that standard. And that is a situation that we will address,” he said.
“In the long-term plan of the province, we are trying to build more hotels to cater for tourism.
“We also have the Survivor programme planned for June and we are already collaborating with the guys from the United States.
“After Survivor, tourists will be coming to East New Britain in numbers. In regards to Apec, the provincial government is trying its best to prepare for any meeting that will be held in East New Britain. We are preparing things in terms of infrastructure such as the roads and especially the airport.”
Governor Nakikus Konga said increasing the number of hotels would be appropriate if the Tokua Airport was upgraded.
“With tourism, we have to really understand the industry. The hotels come as number two. That is why we are going this airport first as there cannot be big hotels without a proper international airport,” he said.
“Tourists will be able to come in numbers with a good airport. And when there is demand for hotels, international investors will come.”