The Conflict Islands are a privately owned group of islands which are still a part of Papua New Guinea. These 21 uninhabited islands spread over 925 acres which were named after the HM Survey ship, “The Conflict”, the ship that charted the islands in 1886. Ian Gowrie-Smith is an Australian businessman who resides in Britain. His 25 million dollar purchase of the islands in 2003 is a part of his plan to create protected wilderness around the world. In Sept. of 2022, Mr. Gowrie-Smith began negotiations with the Australian government in consideration of the potential sale of the islands. Because they are part of Papua New Guinea, there are questions about the title of the islands. Since independence, land is reserved for ownership by the state of PNG citizens. If it is not in customary ownership by the indigenous people who have lived there and there’s a freehold title then he must convert them to state leases and any sale would be approved by the Minister of Lands. Clans who claim the territory are pushing the PNG government to restore their rights to the islands. And there has been discussion that the Nature Conservancy, or some other conservation organization may be interested in their purchase as they are nesting grounds for endangered Hawksbill and Green Turtles. As recently as two days before we were at the islands, there was continued controversy over the fact that Mr. Gowrie-Smith is trying to sell the islands on the open market and would like to avoid selling to China because of the proximity to Australia, as well as a major Australian shipping lane.
On the main island of Panasesa, there is a runway, bungalows, a main lodge with a restaurant and a dock for small boats. Although 6- 8 day all inclusive trips priced at $5000/day are organized from Alotau or Port Moresby, cruise ships also use the islands as a tender port. The permanent staff on the island operate excursions and activities for visitors. They have planted gardens in the center of the island to avoid the salt in the sea spray and run the turtle nursery as well as tend to the upkeep of the islands. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, but it is a cashless society - meaning all purchases are done with a credit or debit card.
This is the land of white sands, clear waters, fluorescent corals and exotic fish. As a cruise ship passenger, it feels like the South Pacific’s minimalist version of a private island. One word of caution to visitors - it’s hot here! Not only are temperatures warm, but the sun is bright. Use protective clothing, reef safe sunscreen, and bring water so you can stay hydrated. And watch for brilliant sunsets, as you are in Paradise on the Coral Sea.
WHAT YOU CAN SEE IN THIS VIDEO
1.Escape to Paradise My Private Island in the Conflict Islands, Papua New Guinea
2.Discovering the Beauty of Conflict Islands Papua New Guinea
3.Uncovering the Secrets of My Private Island in the Conflict Islands
4.Living the Dream A Tour of My Private Island in Papua New Guinea
5.From Desolate Island to Tropical Haven My Journey to the Conflict Islands
6.Island Life at Its Best My Private Retreat in the Conflict Islands
7.Exploring the Unspoiled Beauty of the Conflict Islands Papua New Guinea
8.Living Off the Grid My Private Island in the Conflict Islands
9.A Slice of Heaven My Private Island Paradise in Papua New Guinea
10.Experience the Ultimate Getaway My Private Island in the Conflict Islands
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