Nissan IslandNissan Island at a Glance
About Nissan Island
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.
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.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 24° - 31° | 27° | 241 mm | - | - | 2.1 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 217 mm | - | - | 2.1 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 24° - 31° | 27° | 276 mm | - | - | 2.3 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 272 mm | - | - | 2.1 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 212 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 216 mm | - | - | 2.5 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 298 mm | - | - | 2.7 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 306 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 228 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 209 mm | - | - | 2.1 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 211 mm | - | - | 1.8 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 24° - 31° | 27° | 252 mm | - | - | 2.1 m/s | - | - |
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.