Lihir Group

The Lihir Group is a cluster of volcanic islands in New Ireland Province, Papua New Guinea. The islands are part of the Bismarck Archipelago and are administered within New Ireland Province.

The archipelago is notable for its volcanic geology and for hosting significant mineral resources. The largest island in the group contains a major gold-mining operation, which has driven much modern development and external interest in the islands.

The islands are populated by local communities with settlements clustered around coastal areas and plantations; sea transport and irregular air links provide the main external connections.

Geographically the Lihir Group lies off the northeast coast of the New Ireland main island, within Papua New Guinea’s island chains in the western Pacific.

• Volcanic islands: The islands are volcanic in origin and include lagoons, reef sections, and plantation areas used by local communities.

What to See#

• Main island and mine: The largest island in the group hosts a major gold-mining operation and associated infrastructure that dominates the local economy and landscape.

Access to the Lihir Group is usually via Kavieng or by air to Lihir (Niolam) Airport from Port Moresby or other regional hubs. Shipping and charter flights are subject to schedule changes; coordinate travel with regional operators or provincial authorities.

• Inter-island transport in the Bismarck Sea is limited-book freight or scheduled passenger services through New Ireland Province authorities in advance.
• Respect customary land and sea boundaries when visiting island communities; many islands are privately or communally owned.
• Bring insect protection and water purification - services can be sparse on smaller islands.