People of the Kokoda Track
The Koiari people generally inhabit the area between the foothills of the Owen Stanley Ranges east of Port Moresby and Kokoda. They once built homes in tree-tops and when Europeans first encountered them in the 1880's, they were renowned for their fierceness.
Today, the Koiari are Seventh Day Adventists so they do not raise or eat pigs, chew betel nut or smoke tobacco. Please respect the culture and religion of the communities. People observe prayer daily between 5.00 pm and 6.00 pm, and their Sabbath from 5.00 pm Friday to 6.00 pm Saturday.
They grow taros, bananas, yams, vegetables and recently coffee. They are very friendly people, however young female Koiari are particularly shy and reserved and you should respect their wishes if they do not want to talk.
Male bush walkers should give women the right of way on the trail - step off the trail, the further the better.
Also, be aware that men and women bathe in different places; usually the women bathe down stream from the men. The same can apply to toilets, so ask first. Be sensitive, as this is of great importance to the people.
Social unrest along the Track is also very unlikely. We have excellent relations with all the land owners along the Track, who are treated fairly and compassionately by No Roads. They assure our safe passage along the Track. To add to this security is our well respected lead and local guides. They have great influence with all village heads assuring our safe passage.
Today, the Koiari are Seventh Day Adventists so they do not raise or eat pigs, chew betel nut or smoke tobacco. Please respect the culture and religion of the communities. People observe prayer daily between 5.00 pm and 6.00 pm, and their Sabbath from 5.00 pm Friday to 6.00 pm Saturday.
They grow taros, bananas, yams, vegetables and recently coffee. They are very friendly people, however young female Koiari are particularly shy and reserved and you should respect their wishes if they do not want to talk.
Male bush walkers should give women the right of way on the trail - step off the trail, the further the better.
Also, be aware that men and women bathe in different places; usually the women bathe down stream from the men. The same can apply to toilets, so ask first. Be sensitive, as this is of great importance to the people.
Social unrest along the Track is also very unlikely. We have excellent relations with all the land owners along the Track, who are treated fairly and compassionately by No Roads. They assure our safe passage along the Track. To add to this security is our well respected lead and local guides. They have great influence with all village heads assuring our safe passage.
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