Alotau Getting there & around

Getting around

Alotau’s airport is at Gurney, 15km from town, and was named after Bob Gurney, an Australian who began flying for Guinea Airways in 1929 and was killed in action with the RAAF in 1942.

Taxis travelling to town cost K35, but most hotels provide transfers for K20 to K25, or for free. PMVs run to town from the nearby main road (K3), but they’re infrequent. PMVs to the airport leave from near the Bank South Pacific. The best way into town is by simply asking someone for a lift. Remember that although hitching a ride from the airport is commonplace, foreigners (especially women) should exercise careful judgment about from whom they accept a ride.

Alotau is well-served by taxis. Bay Cabs (641 1093) is the main taxi company and sometimes provides car hire. Others include Pool Room Taxis (698 0920; Chase Corp Bldg, Charles Abel Hwy, Gurney); Gramp’s Taxi (641 1557) and HT Taxis (641 9087).

Avis (641 1273; Charles Abel Hwy) has opened an office next door to Napatana Lodge.