Nissan Island
Island Tropical island in the Green Islands group
Nissan Island in Bougainville combines WWII relics, coral reefs and village life; divers and history-minded visitors explore wrecks and reef systems.
Nissan Island is one of the Green Islands in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea, notable for its role in World War II.
Allied forces captured the island from Japanese control in 1944 during operations to secure forward bases in the Pacific and built an airstrip and support facilities that were used for subsequent operations.
The island sits in the Solomon Sea as part of the Green Islands group, administratively within the Autonomous Region of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea.
- WWII history: Captured by Allied forces during the Green Islands operation in 1944, after which an airfield was constructed and used to support operations in the region.
- Geography and population: Part of the Green Islands group in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, it is remote and sparsely populated with local communities living on the island.
What to See #
- WWII airstrip: Remains of a World War II airstrip and associated military works built by Allied forces after capture in 1944, still visible on the island's flatter eastern side.
How to Get to Nissan Island #
Reached by inter-island boat from Bougainville or nearby hubs; schedules and availability depend on local operators. Air access to nearby larger islands is the usual connection before a local boat leg.
Tips for Visiting Nissan Island #
- If interested in WWII history, arrange a local guide - the island's wartime sites are best understood with context.
- Respect local customs and village schedules; many communities are small and prioritize fishing rhythms.
Best Time to Visit Nissan Island #
Best visited during the dry season when sea lanes are reliable; local charters connect Nissan Island with Bougainville and regional hubs.
Weather & Climate near Nissan Island #
Tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 24°C to 31°C. Heavy rainfall (2938 mm/year), wettest in August, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the warmest month with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (241 mm).
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February
February is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (217 mm).
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March
March is the warmest month with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (276 mm).
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April
April is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (272 mm).
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May
May is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (212 mm).
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June
June is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (216 mm).
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July
July is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (298 mm).
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August
August is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (306 mm).
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September
September is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (228 mm).
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October
October is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (209 mm).
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November
November is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (211 mm).
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December
December is the warmest month with highs of 31°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (252 mm).
