Hanuabada Stilt Village
Hanuabada
A stilt-house village where Motu people have lived for generations, linked by wooden walkways over the water; it is regarded as the birthplace of Port Moresby.
Hanuabada means 'big village'. It is a traditional settlement of the Motu-Koitabu people, with hundreds of stilt houses built in the shallow waters of the bay and connected by long wooden walkways. It existed long before Europeans arrived and is regarded as the origin of Port Moresby. Villagers still keep alive the traditions of lakatoi trading voyages and pottery. This is a residential community rather than a tourist attraction, so arrange your visit through local people or a tour operator, respect people's privacy, and ask permission before taking photos.
Opening hours
Must be accompanied by a local guide
Nearby sights
- Ela Beach
- St Mary's Cathedral
- Koki Fish Market
- Paga Hill
- Parliament House
- National Museum and Art Gallery
- Port Moresby Nature Park
- Bomana War Cemetery