PM hails rural tourism pioneer for believing in PNG

Rural tourism in Papua New Guinea continues to show what is possible when trust, partnership and long-term commitment are put first.

Prime Minister James Marape said this while visiting Ambua Lodge in Tari, Hela Province, during the Christmas and New Year period, where he formally acknowledged and commended Sir Bob Bates, the owner of Trans Niugini Tours, for his long-standing contribution to the country.

“I am pleased to be here at Ambua Lodge and to recognise Sir Bob Bates for what he has done for our country,” the Prime Minister said.

He said Sir Bob first came to Papua New Guinea on August 6, 1964, and has chosen to make the country his home for nearly 62 years, despite traveling widely around the world.

Prime Minister Marape said this long-term commitment reflects a deep belief in Papua New Guinea, its people, and its future, and sends a strong message of confidence in the nation.

Through Trans Niugini Tours, Sir Bob Bates has developed and sustained some of Papua New Guinea’s most well-known eco-tourism destinations, including Ambua Lodge in Tari, Rondon Ridge in Mt Hagen, Bensbach Wildlife Lodge in Western Province, and Karawari Lodge in East Sepik Province.

The Prime Minister said these investments were made in rural and remote areas rather than major towns, showing confidence in grassroots Papua New Guinea and the strength of community partnerships.

“As Ambua Lodge approaches its 40th anniversary, having officially opened on 31 December 1985, this milestone deserves national recognition,” Prime Minister Marape said.

He described the lodge’s four decades of continuous operation without major security disturbances as a remarkable achievement. The Prime Minister said what stood out most at Ambua Lodge was the absence of security fences.

“This is not a weakness; it is a strength,” he said.

He explained that safety at the lodge has been built through trust, respect and strong relationships with local landowners and surrounding communities, adding that when communities are included and respected, they become the most effective form of security.

Prime Minister Marape also addressed negative perceptions about Tari and Hela Province, stating that the area should not be defined solely by its challenges. He said the story of Ambua Lodge clearly shows that peaceful and successful investment is possible.

“Negative narratives that portray Tari as unsafe do not reflect the full reality and only undermine genuine development opportunities,” he said.

He added that Sir Bob Bates’ ability to travel freely across the Highlands without security escorts speaks louder than reports and reflects the reality on the ground.

Over its lifetime, Ambua Lodge has hosted more than 100,000 visitors from overseas and from all 31 provinces of Papua New Guinea, showing that local tourism within the country continues to grow.

The Prime Minister said this contribution has supported local jobs, skills development, cultural exchange and the national economy, while promoting Papua New Guinea as a welcoming destination.

He also praised the lodge’s commitment to sustainability, noting its mini-hydro system producing about 150 kilowatts, which powers the lodge using clean energy. He said this aligns with national goals for environmental responsibility and sustainable growth.

On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Marape thanked Sir Bob Bates for making PNG his home and staying through good and difficult times.

“I encourage other Papua New Guineans and potential investors, both local and international, not to be discouraged by negativity,” he said.

He urged investors to learn from the example of Ambua Lodge, which has operated successfully for 40 years based on trust, respect and partnership.

Addressing young Papua New Guineans, the Prime Minister said, “Do not sit back and complain. Opportunities exist here at home.”

He said Sir Bob Bates did not start with millions, but with an idea, courage, discipline and determination.

As Ambua Lodge marks 40 years of operation, Prime Minister Marape congratulated Sir Bob Bates and Trans Niugini Tours for believing in Tari, Hela Province and Papua New Guinea.

“Ambua Lodge stands as a national symbol of what is possible when development is built on trust, partnership, and long-term vision,” he said, before wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.