Kokopo War Museum
Introduction
The Kokopo War Museum, located on a road near the waterfront in Kokopo in East New Britain Province of Papua New Guinea, invites visitors to explore a remarkable journey through history. Set against the scenic backdrop near the golf course and the Gazelle Hotel, this museum offers a compelling window into the world wars that shaped the region, with a heartfelt tribute preserved by dedicated local volunteers.
About the Museum
The Kokopo War Museum, supported by local community volunteers, stands outdoors on spacious grounds that feature impressive relics from World War Two, including rusting tanks, fighter planes, cannons, and other military artifacts—many of Japanese origin.
Inside, visitors can view a collection of photographs depicting air, land, and sea campaigns that engulfed New Britain and nearby Rabaul during the war. A charming and unusual resident also awaits on the museum grounds: a crocodile named “Barney,” whose presence adds a unique local touch—though visitors are advised not to feed or annoy him.
Additional indoor features include a small gift shop offering souvenirs. The museum also honours the German colonial period—between 1884 and around 1920—by displaying storyboards and pictures donated by the German government, allowing visitors to reflect on this earlier chapter of the region’s history.
Interesting Facts
- Outdoor relics include hulking remains of tanks, fighter planes, cannons, and other artifacts of war, many of which are Japanese.
- There is a resident crocodile named “Barney” on the museum grounds—do not feed or provoke him.
- A small gift shop inside provides a chance to purchase keepsakes reflecting the museum’s themes.
- The museum glances further back in time by featuring storyboards and images from the German colonial era, donated by the German government.
- The museum’s volunteer-driven operation speaks to the local commitment to preserving historical memory.
Photo Gallery
Physical Location
Contact Details
Phone: +675 982 8453
Website: tracesofwar.com/sights/19262/Kokopo-War-Museum.htm
Facebook: facebook.com/p/Kokopo-War-Historical-Museum-100067967386937/
Conclusion
The Kokopo War Museum is a captivating and heartfelt destination for anyone interested in the history of World War Two and earlier periods of Papua New Guinea’s past. Emerging along the waterfront of Kokopo in East New Britain, it offers both evocative outdoor exhibits of military relics and thoughtful indoor displays enriched by local and international contributions. Visitors can enjoy a unique encounter with history as well as with “Barney,” the resident crocodile—a reminder of the local character that infuses this museum. The inclusion of German colonial-era materials further enriches the narrative, offering a broader historical perspective. Maintained by caring local volunteers, the museum reflects genuine community pride and a dedication to preserving the legacy of the region. A visit here promises not only educational value but also a truly memorable and positive experience.
