Residents’ Perception on the Implications of Tourism and the Proposed Mining Operations along Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea

Abstract

This tourism research explores the residents’ perception on the implications of tourism activities and the proposed mining operations at Mt. Kodu within the historical Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea in terms of economic, sociocultural and environmental aspects. Using a descriptive-normative method of research, with questionnaire as the main tool of gathering data supplemented with informative interview, an investigation was conducted to the residents of six villages along the track. Result of the survey reveals that there is a significant difference in the perception of the resident-respondents on the implications of tourism activities and the proposed mining operations at Mt. Kodu. Despite approval of landowners for mining because of financial gain, residents articulated their beliefs that trekking provides them more economic, socio-cultural and environmental benefits than the proposed mining. The concerned stakeholders share the same views with the residents and support tourism over mining through programs and projects that will protect the track, promote trekking activity and improve the quality of life of the village people. With trekking as a significant source of income, residents assessed their extent of involvement in tourism in terms of promotion and marketing, tour guiding, hosting and product planning and development to ascertain how they take part in the realization of tourism goals for Kokoda Track.