Tourism Authority Kiribati

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Kiribati International Visitor Survey 2024

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati, in collaboration with the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), has successfully completed the International Visitor Survey (IVS) 2024. Kiribati was also one of ten Pacific Island countries participating in the Pacific Tourism Data Initiatives (PTDI) project, which was funded by the New Zealand Government.

The Kiribati International Visitor Survey (IVS) 2024 provides valuable insights into tourism trends, visitor experiences, and areas for improvement. Visitors found the friendly local people, the beautiful lagoon waters, and the rich culture to be the most appealing aspects of their stay. The survey results further showed that the majority of the visitors were first-time visitors to Kiribati (42%).

The survey revealed key visitor trends, with an average length of stay of eight nights. Business travel was the primary reason for visiting Kiribati, accounting for 39% of visitors, followed by holiday travel at 18%. The top source markets were Australia (31%), Fiji (18%), and New Zealand (14%). Additionally, 52% of visitors learned about Kiribati through their colleagues, highlighting the importance of word-of-mouth recommendations.

However, the survey also highlighted challenges affecting visitor satisfaction, including rubbish and cleanliness issues, accommodation quality, limited food and beverage options, and abandoned cars. To enhance the overall visitor experience, respondents suggested beach clean-ups, upgrades to accommodations, and improvements to public services and infrastructure.

The IVS 2024 report serves as a crucial tool for policymakers, tourism stakeholders, and businesses, offering insights that can shape the future of Kiribati’s tourism industry. By addressing visitor concerns and enhancing tourism infrastructure, Kiribati can strengthen its appeal as a travel destination. With targeted improvements, the country can ensure a more enriching experience for future visitors while promoting sustainable tourism initiatives that align with local values and environmental priorities.

As outlined in the current Kiribati Vision 20 (KV20), tourism is a priority sector from which the government aims to generate income. The IVS 2024 report provides valuable insights that could help drive economic returns by guiding strategic decisions on maximizing the benefits of tourism. More information, like average visitor spending, average household income, and tourist activities, can be viewed here: https://southpacificislands.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kiribati-IVS-Jan-Dec-2024-Report_.pdf

SPTO Board of Directors Trained on Good Governance and Effective Directors Program.

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The Officer in Charge, Tourism Authority of Kiribati participated in a 2 -day course on Governance Training – Effective Directors Program with the Governance Institute of Australia from 12-13th May 2025 held at the Crown Plaza, Nadi in Fiji.

Ms. Reeti Onorio, the OIC, TAK was amongst the Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) Board of Directors and SPTO Management team who participated in the 2 days intense face to face training program. Day one was focused on Core functions of the Board and Director Dynamics including how best directors can communicate. The second day was more practical and involved the role play of the Directors in a real-life Board meeting setting.

The P4A partnered with the Governance Institute of Australia to deliver the Effective Directors training by providing practical tools and tips in building high-performing boards. Governance is key to a resilient tourism sector and the Board plays an integral part in guiding and promoting organizational culture and sustainable governance to achieve business objectives.

This training provided was a good opportunity for Pacific tourism leaders to effectively improve their Board meeting deliveries in their respective countries. As a Secretariat to the TAK Board of Directors, the course allows me to learn effective ways to better understand my Secretariat role and the role of my management team to be better prepared for Board meetings, says the OIC, Reeti Onorio.

At the end of the course, each participant was awarded a certificate of competition.

Exploring Tourism in Nikunau: Local Perspectives & Accommodations Survey

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is pleased to announce the successful completion of its annual Tourism Business Inventory Survey (TBIS) and Outer Island Perception Survey (OIPS) in Nikunau. This marks the first time TAK has conducted the OIPS on the island. The survey was carried out by TAK’s Research and Statistics Division team.

The primary purpose of the TBIS is to update the national accommodation database with key details such as contact information, room count, staff numbers, available services, and facilities. Meanwhile, the OIPS gathers local perspectives on tourism, its impact on the community, and potential areas for sustainable development. The surveys took place from Monday, 12th June to Sunday, 18th June 2025.

TBIS results indicate that only two accommodations are currently operating on the island: Neineinimatang Island Bungalow and Rose Island Bungalow. The Island Council Guesthouse and Santa Maria Guesthouse are closed this quarter.

The survey results further show that the total number of available accommodations remains unchanged, with two properties offering 10 beds and employing the same number of staff. This quarter, only buia (local unit) is available.

The number of female employees increased by 25%, while male employees declined by 33%. Additionally, six staff members received training through Mauri Way Training Program, while some have also earned certificates from previous hospitality trainings with MTC (Marine Training Centre) and KIT (Kiribati Institute of Technology. This demonstrates that Nikunau has local capacity for tourism development, though more trained individuals are needed.

The Nikunau OIPS gathered insights from 10% of households on the island, assessing tourism’s environmental, economic, and socio-cultural impact. It also collected community opinions on unique locations that could be developed for sustainable tourism. The OIPS results will provide deeper insights into tourism’s role in Nikunau’s future and will be shared once the report is finalized later this year.

Tourism Authority of Kiribati successfully delivered training programs on Nikunau Island.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) has successfully completed a comprehensive four-day training program focused on Tourism Restart and Tourism & Hospitality Series Program enhancement. This initiative was tailored for existing and registered tourism operators and community representatives on Nikunau Island. The training was held from May 12th to 17th, 2025, at the Nikunau Island Guesthouse boardroom.

Designed to empower local accommodation providers and community members, the program equipped participants with valuable insights and skills to navigate the evolving tourism landscape. The Tourism Restart training covered essential topics such as Tourism Business Fundamentals and Tourism Revenue Management, while the Tourism & Hospitality Series provided foundational knowledge in front office operations, housekeeping, and customer service.

The Revenue Management segment emphasized best practices and strategic approaches to revenue optimization, promoting long-term growth and sustainability in the industry. Meanwhile, the Tourism Business Fundamentals training focused on marketing strategies and capacity building for human resource development, ensuring businesses enhance their services and offerings. The Tourism & Hospitality Series empowered participants with essential skills to meet customer expectations and deliver an exceptional visitor experience.

A total of sixteen participants from various local tourism businesses and communities attended the training. These included representatives from Neneinmatang Hotel and Rose Bungalow (KUC Tabutoa), as well as individuals from villages across Nikunau: Tabomatang, Manriiki, Nikumanu, Rungataa, Tabutoa, and Murubenua.

During a courtesy call, Mayor Temareti Tabuee, speaking on behalf of the participants, emphasized the significance of the program in strengthening the roles and responsibilities of island representatives within their respective tourism operations.
TAK extends its deepest gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry, and Cooperatives for financing and facilitating this initiative, as well as to the Nikunau Island Council for their invaluable support in ensuring the successful implementation of the program.

Mauri May Training has been extended to PNI liaison officers and chauffers as part of their preparation for the upcoming PNA Meeting in Tarawa Kiribati.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) has successfully conducted a two-day Mauri Way Customer Service Training for seventeen officers, chauffeurs and liaison officers who will play a important role in the preparations for the upcoming Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) Meeting, scheduled to take place from 2 to 6 June 2025 at the Kiritimati Island Fish Limited Conference Room, Ambo Tarawa, Kiribati.

The Mauri Way Customer Service Training, a key program offered by TAK, is designed to equip frontliners working with local tourism operators and government ministries with essential hospitality and customer service skills. This initiative ensures that all frontliners provide memorable first and last impressions for visitors, allowing them to experience the true essence of Kiribati.
For this session, the training program was tailored specifically to prepare selected participants to serve as responsible hosts during the PNA conference. Led by Tourism Officer (Training & Development), Monika Rikita, and assisted by Acting Assistant Tourism Officer, Tie Manueara, the training covered the following comprehensive modules:

• Module One: Introduction to the Mauri Way
• Module Two: First Impressions
• Module Three: Types of Travellers and Cultural Awareness
• Module Four: Anticipating Travellers’ Needs and Wants
• Module Five: Problem Solving, Complaint Handling, Conflict Management
• Module Six: Customer Service Excellence
• Module Seven: Bringing it All Together

Speaking at the event, Mr. Fakalongo Hopi, a representative of the Kiribati Police Service, emphasized the vital role of this training in enhancing their accountability and preparedness when working with VIPs.

A total of seventeen participants successfully completed the training, including nine police officers from the Kiribati Police Service, who will serve as chauffeurs, and eight liaison officers from key ministries, such as: Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs, Ministry of Information, Communication, and Transport, Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives and Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources.

TAK expresses its heartfelt appreciation to the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources for financing this valuable program, as well as to the Standing Committee for their dedicated efforts in successfully coordinating and organizing the training.

Bikaati Islet Welcomes Hanseatic Inspiration Cruise with Cultural Grace

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On May 2, 2025, the small community of Bikaati Islet proudly welcomed the Hanseatic Inspiration cruise ship. A total of 163 passengers came ashore for their first encounter with Kiribati, where they had the opportunity to explore the island, engage with the local community, and experience the rich traditions and unique culture that define our way of life.

The visit commenced with a warm and symbolic reception at the shore, where passengers were crowned with handcrafted garlands made from te nikabubuti, a unique mangrove deeply tied to local customs of Butaritari Atoll. This traditional gesture underscored the island’s dedication to preserving its heritage while embracing global visitors.

The cultural showcase continued as students from Tikinee Primary School captivated guests with spirited performances of Kiribati’s treasured dances. The elegant ‘buki’, known as the hip dance, and the dynamic ‘kamei’, performed by men, expressed the island’s vibrant storytelling tradition, fostering a heartfelt connection between locals and visitors.

Beyond the performances, cruise passengers explored the tiny islet of Bikaati Islet, engaging with the community and gaining insights into the island’s simple yet profound way of life. Central to this experience was the opportunity to savor Bikaati’s traditional cuisine, prepared using techniques passed down through generations. Guests delighted in an array of indigenous delicacies, including coconut sprout, fresh coconut and coconut juice, breadfruit chips, sugar cane, pawpaw fruit, tapioca, pandanus fruit, and the famed boiled pandanus fruit soaked in coconut cream—each bite a reflection of the island’s culinary identity.

In appreciation of the warm hospitality, Hanseatic Inspiration Cruise presented Tikinee Primary School with educational and sports materials, strengthening the bond between visitors and the island community.

With Hanseatic Inspiration Cruise set to return in May 2026, the Tourism Authority of Kiribati extends its gratitude to the people of Bikaati Islet for their exceptional welcome, ensuring that the island’s cultural heritage continues to shine on the global stage.

Sustainable Tourism Model, Gender Equality and High-Level Priorities Discussed at SPTO Board Workshop

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The Officer in Charge of Tourism Authority of Kiribati, Ms Reeti Onorio participated in the Sustainable Tourism Board Workshop held at the Crown Plaza Resort, Wailoaloa Nadi, Fiji on 7th May 2025.

The workshop was organized by the Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) and gathered SPTO Board of Directors to present them with the overarching vision of the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework (PSTPF) and progress updates of existing projects under the Sustainable Tourism division of SPTO.

2 leading regional projects’ updates were made at the workshop:

1) Development of a tourism model for the South Pacific- presentations of outcomes from the Linkage Project done by Griffith University. The presentations provided evidence-based perspectives on how we as a region can reshape our tourism approach to maximize benefits for communities and natural heritage.
2) Gender Audit Regional Synthesis Report Presentation and updates reflecting on sustainability linkages with inclusivity. Kiribati is one of the 4 countries that are piloted for this project and the project aims to delve into regional insights and collective efforts towards greater gender equality within the tourism sector.

The second part of the workshop was the discussion of tangible pathways for action that are progressing towards 2030. The Board Directors and participants at the workshop were given the opportunity to discuss the mid -term review and collaborate on high level priorities for 2026-2030.

It was a great opportunity to get together as a region and as Board Directors to discuss our common challenges as well as collective efforts to accelerate and prioritize responsible tourism across the Pacific.

TAK conducts a Tourism Business Inventory Survey on Butaritari

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is proud to announce the successful completion of its annual Tourism Business Inventory Survey (TBIS) in Butaritari conducted by the Research and Statistics Unit. The primary purpose of this survey is to update the Kiribati Accommodation Database with key information, including contact details, number of employees, services offered, and available facilities, among others. The survey took place from April 6th to 8th, 2025.

The results indicate that only three accommodations are currently available on the island: Atinibwaan Iesu Parish Bungalows, Isles Sunset Lodge, and a newly established property, Nemat Resort.

In the previous year, four accommodations were in operation, providing a total of 43 rooms, 43 beds, and employing 46 staff members (22 women and 24 men). However, this year the survey recorded only three accommodations in operation, offering 26 rooms, 46 beds, and employing 17 staff members. This reflects a notable decline in both available accommodations and workforce compared to the last reporting period for Butaritari.

Additionally, three other accommodations were not included in the survey, as they are currently undergoing renovations or require significant maintenance. These properties include TKK Guesthouse, Island Council Guesthouse, and Lismore Motel.
The survey also highlights the urgent need to develop more accommodation facilities on the island and enhance staff training through TAK’s ‘Mauri way’ Hospitality & Customer service training program, and to encourage the creation of locally designed tourism packages.

TAK sincerely thanks the tourism operators in Butaritari for their valuable input and support in this survey.

TAK Showcases ‘Kiribati’ at South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2025

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is happy to announce that it has just returned from participating at the South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2025 (SPTE2025) that took place on the 9th-10th May at the Crowne Plaza Resort & Spa in Nadi, Fiji.

The SPTE2025 is a prestigious tourism trade meeting event (B2B) held annually and is organized by the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) to present a cost-effective platform for its Pacific Island partners to travel from all corners of the Pacific to meet at one location to exchange their exciting tourism products with international buyers from across the globe who are made up of international travel agents and tour operators who are also seeking and exploring new travel holiday products to promote to their clients in their foreign countries.

During this year’s SPTE, TAK managed to engage with 26 travel industry professionals, tour operators, and media representatives to promote the country’s unique tourism offerings. The trade networking was held in 15-minute meeting intervals, which were considerably very brief meeting encounters, however, most of the work will come after the SPTE event with a series of follow-throughs to send each buyer with a Kiribati tourism destination profile information. He added that through networking events, business appointments, and destination presentations, Kiribati aims to increase awareness of its tourism potential and attract more visitors to its shores.

Ms. Reeti Onorio, the Acting CEO of TAK, along with George Kum Kee (Senior Tourism Officer), who attended the SPTE indicated that Kiribati’s presence at this prestigious event underscores its commitment to fostering sustainable tourism growth and highlighting the diverse attractions that Kiribati has to offer. He added that, apart from the natural beauty of Sun, Sea & Sand that we all share similarly with our neighboring Pacific Islands destinations, Kiribati participated in showcasing its niche tourism products such as authentic cultural experiences through cultural community-based tourism activities, world-class fishing in Kiritimati Island, Scuba diving in Kiritimati Island, Birdwatching & wildlife tourism, and surfing Kiritimati & Fanning Island. “Our islands offer truly simple and raw experiences for travelLers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventure and authentic cultural encounters. We look forward to forging new partnerships after this SPTE and we look forward to welcoming more visitors to Kiribati.

With its participation in the South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2024, the Tourism Authority of Kiribati aims to position the country as a must-visit destination in the South Pacific, inviting travelLers to discover the magic moments of Kiribati and create lifelong, memorable memories and experiences.

TAK prepares for MV Hanseatic Inspiration Cruise call and Butaritari Atoll Tourism Product Launch

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On 1 April, a team from the Product Development and Investment Promotion (PDIP) Unit of the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) travelled to Butaritari Atoll to spearhead preparations for two major tourism events: the highly anticipated visit of the MV Hanseatic Inspiration cruise ship on Bikati Islet and the Butaritari Tourism Product Launch.

This mission is part of TAK’s ongoing commitment to support and empower tourism-ready communities across Kiribati by equipping them with the tools and training needed to offer authentic, engaging, and sustainable visitor experiences.

Cruise Visit to Bikati Islet – 2 May
The MV Hanseatic Inspiration is scheduled to call at Bikati Islet on 2 May, generating strong anticipation among locals and stakeholders. Two TAK officers spent three days on the islet working closely with community members to prepare for the cruise visit.

Key activities included:
• Finalizing welcoming protocols
• Coordinating guided tours and cultural performances (including traditional dances and choir)
• Organizing local refreshments, such as fresh tropical fruits
• Conducting site assessments and marking designated areas for meet-and-greet points, restrooms, and performance spaces to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visitor flow.

These preparations aim to offer passengers a memorable, culturally rich experience while highlighting Bikati’s identity and its community-led, sustainable tourism approach.

Tourism Product Launch Preparation – Mainland Butaritari

Following their work on Bikaati, the TAK team continued preparations on the mainland of Butaritari, focusing on strengthening the readiness of local communities for the upcoming Butaritari Tourism Product Launch.
Working alongside the Butaritari Island Council, the team engaged with nine communities: Ukiangang, Antakana, Tanimaiaki, Tanimainiku, Keuea, Kuuma Village, Utirake Community, and Bikaati Islet.

Key tasks included:
• Finalizing tour programs and highlights
• Refining visitor experience packages to include:
o Traditional welcome ceremonies
o Cultural performances (dance and choir)
o Maneaba-based gatherings
o Local culinary tastings
o Handcrafted souvenirs

These efforts aim to enhance the guest experience while also positioning Butaritari as a vibrant, emerging tourism destination in Kiribati.

Towards Sustainable Tourism Development
The Butaritari Tourism Product Launch marks a pivotal milestone in the island’s tourism journey, paving the way for greater recognition of its unique attractions and cultural offerings. TAK extends its sincere gratitude to the Butaritari Island Council, participating communities, and all stakeholders for their dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work in bringing these initiatives to life.

These initiatives are not only a celebration of Butaritari’s rich heritage and natural beauty but also a contribution to Kiribati’s national tourism development goals—by building local capacity and promoting sustainable, inclusive tourism across the islands.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati is responsible for working with our partners to encourage travelers to come to Kiribati and spend time exploring our country.

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