Kiriwina Island

Introducing Kiriwina Island

The largest of the Trobriand Islands is Kiriwina, which is home to the district capital of Losuia and the airstrip. Kiriwina is relatively flat, although there is a rim of low hills (uplifted coral reefs) along the eastern shore. The central plain is intensely cultivated and, with the island’s population growing fast, there are concerns that cutting trees to plant gardens will devastate the island.

The airport is in the north, where the US Air Force had two bases during WWII. South of here, on the west coast, Losuia is the only real town and is generally known as ‘the station’. It has a wharf, police station, health centre and two trade stores. It’s more like a sprawling village than a town. Electricity is rumoured to be coming soon but if it does, it will probably be as reliable as the temperamental telephone network.

Last updated: Jul 22, 2009