Taare Rikiai – Kaongora Newsletter

German Hapag Lloyd Cruise Ship ‘MV Hanseatic Inspiration’ set to Visit Bikati Islet, Butaritari on the 2nd of May 2025

November 8, 2024November 8, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

On November 4th, TAK had the pleasure of meeting with Thomas Schubert from Pacific International Consulting and the Manager of Shipping Agencies of Kiribati (SAOK) to discuss preparations for the anticipated arrival of the cruise ship MV Hanseatic Inspiration at Bikati Islet in Butaritari, scheduled for May 2, 2025. This marks the third visit by a Hapag Lloyd Cruises vessel to Butaritari, following previous visits in 2015 and 2018. Unfortunately, two planned visits to Bikati in 2021 and 2022 had to be canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but with cruise operations resuming last year, Kiribati is pleased to welcome this renewed opportunity.

During the meeting, Mr. Schubert shared that the cruise line was highly impressed with the 2018 excursion and is delighted to once again include Bikati, Butaritari, as a destination on its Great Micronesia Cruise Expedition. The MV Hanseatic Inspiration, departing from New Caledonia and Palau, will carry 220 passengers who will experience a full-day excursion on Bikati Islet. This visit is not only a wonderful opportunity to showcase Kiribati’s unique beauty and culture to international guests but also promises to generate meaningful economic benefits for the Butaritari Island community and Kiribati as a whole.

Photo above from left to right; George Kumkee Jr (Senior Tourism Officer), Reeti Onorio (Agt CEO), Thomas Schubert (Pacific International Consulting), and Naare Taukoriri (Manager Shipping Agencies of Kiribati)

Kiribati Tourism Industry Review 2023

November 7, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

In 2023, Kiribati experienced and welcomed its first resumption of tourism & travel arrivals marking the arrival of cruise ships after the border closure since the COVID-19 period. A total of 5118 cruise passengers were welcomed in Kiribati for the first time after the COVID-19 lockdown.

The first part of the report highlights important events and key activities that TAK has accomplished which ranged from the establishment of the sustainable tourism policy, preparations for cruise ship arrivals, and TAK’s participation in regional and international expos.

The reports also captured the increase in international arrivals to Kiribati when compared to the previous year 2022. An increase of 364% which doubled the international arrival figure in 2022.

This increase was caused by the resumption of regular flights to Kiribati from Fiji Airways and Nauru Airlines. The reports also provide an average length of stay by purpose of visit and by nationality which shows which country spends more nights in Kiribati. Corporate visitors stayed the longest with 15 nights.

Domestic tourism travel by sea increased by 25% when compared to 2022 marine travel while domestic travel by air also decreased by 5%.

The report further provides the number of visitors visiting the Museum and the main purpose of their visits.
The growth in tourism supply was also stated in the reports with a breakdown of the number of female staff and male staff currently working at accommodations in Kiribati.

TAK continued to give its acknowledgement to the following Ministries and companies for their continued support and contributions to the report, Air Kiribati Limited; the Marine Guard; the Immigration department, Shipping Agencies of Kiribati, Kiribati Customs Office and the tourism operators and accommodations that supplied data for the purpose of this report.

You can view the full report here

Butaritari Island Gears Up for a Major Tourism Milestone

November 8, 2024November 6, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is making significant steps to promote Butaritari as a new outer island new destination for travellers. With the upcoming tourism launch, the focus on community-based tourism is set to offer visitors a unique and authentic experience. The preparation includes meticulous planning of tours and operations, ensuring that visitors will have a well-structured and enriching journey.

TAK will also produce a Visit Butaritari promotional video and erecting tour site signages which are strategic moves to enhance the overall visitor experience, showcasing Butaritari’s offerings and guiding visitors to the heart of the island’s culture and beauty. TAK so far has engaged village communities from Kuuma, Keuea, Tanimaiaki, Antakana, Bikaati islet, Ukiangang and Utirake communities to develop Community-based Tourism products including varied Marine Protected Area tours that feature snorkeling to exploring of the coral plantation, clam farm, and experience clam oyster hunting. At the same time visitors get to explore the islets and participate in cultural tour programs, tour WWII sites and participate in agritourism.

In collaboration with the Butaritari Island Council and CBT operators, the Tourism Authority of Kiribati has confirmed that Butaritari will be officially recognized as a tourism-ready island. Government delegation, including tour operators, will be welcomed to experience the diverse array of Community-Based Tourism (CBT) products available. This marks an exciting milestone for Butaritari, highlighting its readiness to offer unique cultural and hospitality experiences to visitors.

TAK promotes new licensing Policy consultation in Fanning Island

November 8, 2024November 5, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

The consultation on the new tourism licensing policy for hotel and tour operators was conducted in Fanning Island on the 21st October 2024 by two Tourism officers from the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK). This is part of a nationwide consultation on this licensing policy, particularly to the local government councils including accommodation establishments and tour operations.

The consultation was held with a full council on Fanning informing the local government and tourism operators of a new licensing policy versus the current licensing practice in which the island council currently collects from the hotels and tour operators. TAK therefore stresses that under the new Tourism Regulation, the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) will be mandated to collect tourism operation licenses by the beginning of 2025.

The consultation’s outcome was successful, with the Fanning Island Island Council supporting this change; however, the council requested to continue to collect operational licenses until the end of 2024.

This consultation makes Fanning as the 2nd island in the Line & Phoenix islands group to be consulted leaving Teraina Washington Island as the last to be visited and consulted before 2025.

TAK visits Fanning Island to Conduct Training on Mauri Way Customer Service and Community-Based Tourism

November 8, 2024November 5, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

From October 11th to 22nd, 2024, Officers from Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) office based on Kiritimati Island travelled to Fanning Island to conduct training with local tourism operators & community members on Fanning Island on the Mauri Way Customer Service program and Community-Based Tourism program. The Mauri Way customer service training took place from October 16th to 18th, with 8 hotel operators participating. On October 19th, a one-day Community-Based Tourism training session was held, with three local communities in attendance: Maurin-Eten, Inanoin-Maurin-te-Bonnano, and Paelau communities.

The introduction of the Mauri Way customer service and Community-Based Tourism programs on Fanning Island aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to bring Kiribati culture and hospitality to life. Through the Mauri Way, participants learned how to deliver authentic customer service that highlights the warmth and uniqueness of Kiribati. The Community-Based Tourism training provided insights into sharing cultural heritage with visitors, ensuring they have a memorable and meaningful experience in Kiribati.

At the conclusion of each training, participants were encouraged to share their new skills with colleagues and community members. As Mauri Way Ambassadors, they are now prepared to lead by example, applying what they have learned to welcome and serve visitors. This initiative strengthens Fanning Island’s readiness for future cruise ships and other visitors, enhancing its reputation as a vibrant and welcoming destination.

Quarter 2 2024 Tourism Review in Kiribati

November 5, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati has released its Quarter 2 Tourism Industry Review for 2024, showcasing significant growth. The report highlights a 12% increase in international visitors compared to the same period in 2023, totalling 2,287 visitors. However, this marks a 6% decrease compared to the first quarter of 2024. Visitors from the Pacific Islands led with 28%, followed by Australia at 21% and the USA at 19%. Corporate travel was the primary reason for international arrivals, accounting for 41% of the total, while leisure travel made up 28%.

Domestic air travel within Kiribati showed a strong upward trend, with Abemama, Marakei, and Abaiang being the top most visited islands. Despite no yacht arrivals in June, the quarter recorded five yachts, indicating sustained international interest.

Marine passenger travel saw a slight decrease, with 9,663 passengers recorded, down by 3% from the previous quarter. Abaiang Island had the highest number of marine passengers, followed by North Tarawa and Maiana. Museum visits surged dramatically, with 629 visitors representing a 71% increase compared to the previous quarter (quarter 1 2024).

Accommodation facilities remained stable, with 73 hotels operating across the islands. North Tarawa had the highest number of accommodations, followed by South Tarawa and Kiritimati Island. A total of 721 rooms and 1,384 beds were available, with a significant share in the Gilberts Group.

TAK extends its appreciation to Air Kiribati Ltd, the Marine Guard Division, the Immigration Department, Te Umwanibong Cultural Museum, the Kiribati Customs Administration and Enforcement, and local tourism operators for their invaluable contributions to this comprehensive assessment of Kiribati’s tourism sector.

You may find the reports here.

TAK engages Junior Secondary Schools on South Tarawa and Betio with their Tourism Awareness Program

November 5, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

Officers from the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) conducted a tourism awareness program with junior secondary students (year 9) from government and faith-based schools in South Tarawa and Betio from October 8th to 21st, 2024.

This annual awareness program was conducted by the Training and Development Unit with the aim of educating students about the tourism industry in Kiribati and how tourism development contributes to the nation’s economy, environment, and social-cultural aspects.

Undertaking this program with year 9 students allows TAK to consistently create effective interactions between students and TAK officers about tourism as a topic of discussion and promote engaging interactions between TAK and the local students during the sessions. One of the St. Louis High School teachers added that this program was vital to all form 3 students since Tourism is part of their Kiribati Community Studies (KCS) and Social Science syllabus, which can help them further build their understanding of tourism and its potential. She also mentioned that since Kiribati Certify of Basic Education exams or KCBE (national exam) is approaching, it was a good opportunity for them to participate in this program, as it will allow the students to revise what their teachers had already taught them.

Seven out of eight JSS schools were visited, including Santa Maria, Ngaon Te Rabakau, JSS TUC 1, William Goward Memorial College, Animwarao JSS, St Louis High School, and BTC JSS.

TAK is grateful to the Ministry of Education (MOE) through the SIU (School Improvement Unit) and the principals of church schools for their unwavering support and continued collaboration in allowing this program to be conducted in their respective schools.

Kiribati International Visitor Survey Unveils Insights: Culture, Friendliness, and Unique Experiences Draw Tourists

October 3, 2024October 1, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

The Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) has released the Kiribati International Visitor Survey (IVS) for the period January to June 2024. The survey offers valuable insights into the profiles, preferences, and satisfaction levels of international visitors, contributing to a better understanding of the Kiribati tourism industry.

Key highlights from the report reveal that most visitors to Kiribati came from Australia (36%), Fiji (17%), and New Zealand (13%). The average visitor was aged between 45 and 54 years, with household incomes ranging from USD65,000 to USD115,000. Business travel was the main purpose for visiting Kiribati, accounting for 40% of the total, while 18% visited for holidays and 11% to see friends or relatives.

Visitors spent an average of 7 nights in Kiribati, with South Tarawa (63%) and North Tarawa (31%) being the most popular destinations. Pre-paid spending by visitors averaged between USD1,000 and USD1,499 per trip, with 41% of this allocated to international flights. On-island spending was largely directed toward accommodation, food and beverage, and domestic travel.

Visitor satisfaction was high, with the friendliness of the I-Kiribati people, airport services, and overall service quality receiving the best ratings. However, the survey also highlighted areas needing improvement, including accommodations, infrastructure, and the cleanliness of the environment. Despite these challenges, a majority of visitors expressed their willingness to return and recommend Kiribati as a travel destination.

The IVS was made possible through the support of the Pacific Tourism Development Initiative (PTDI), led by the SPTO Research Team, with generous funding from the New Zealand Government.

TAK also acknowledges the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI), particularly its Immigration Division, for their assistance in providing the visitor email database, enabling the IVS to be distributed through email invitations.

The Kiribati IVS is an ongoing survey, and the next report will be the Kiribati IVS 2024 Report which will cover the months of January – December 2024.

A special thanks to all the visitors who have shared their valuable insights, which have significantly enriched this report.

You may access the report here.

Kiribati Celebrates World Tourism Day 2024 to Promote Tourism & Peace in the World

October 1, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

Celebrated annually on September 27, Kiribati had the pleasure to celebrate the World Tourism Day as an important moment to reflect on the impacts of tourism in Kiribati – creating jobs, contributing to economic growth, connecting communities, and reducing poverty. Additionally, tourism encourages cultural exchange, cultural understanding, and social and environmental sustainability, which can help create a more harmonious society in Kiribati and for travel destinations around the world.

This year’s World Tourism Day 2024 theme by UN Tourism is “Tourism and Peace,” highlighting the potential of tourism as a mechanism for positive impacts on global peace. Sustainable tourism practices foster the inclusion of local communities and economies in the tourism sector while preserving natural and cultural resources. This theme resonates deeply with the core values of the Kiribati society, which promotes our friendly & peaceful Kiribati culture and advocates for sustainable tourism practices that protect our natural environment while enriching communities.

The World Tourism Day 2024 event in Kiribati was hosted by the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) with the celebration held on Betio in the capital South Tarawa (Gilbert Islands group) and by TAK staff on Kiritimati Island in the Line Islands. TAK also invited representatives from the tourism private sector, NGOs, and the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industries & Cooperatives (MTCIC).

The event was officially opened by the Secretary of MTCIC and the Acting CEO of TAK. The event also included the launching of the Climate Friendly Travel program to support sustainable tourism in Kiribati; a presentation of the TAK’s new Licensing Role for 2025; a Presentation on the International Visitors Survey or IVS (Jan -Jun Report 2024) & the Community Attitude Survey (CAS) Report; and a presentation on the new Kiribati tourism customer service program ‘Mauri Way.’ A short video teaser of a new Kiribati destination brand which is yet to be launched this year was also presented during the event. The day’s event was also entertained with traditional dancing and a feast to celebrate World Tourism Day 2024.

SPTO Releases Findings of the Kiribati Community Attitude Survey 2024

October 3, 2024October 1, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

The Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) has officially released the results of the Kiribati Community Attitudes Survey (CAS) 2024, a comprehensive study designed to capture the perceptions of residents on tourism’s impacts. The annual survey, conducted from July to August 2024, aimed to understand how communities in Kiribati experience tourism and their views on better preparing for its future impacts.

Responses were gathered via both paper-based and online survey links across South Tarawa, Kiritimati, and Nonouti Island, yielding 271 valid responses from the 293 received. 98% of participants were I-Kiribati, with 67% having never lived overseas, reflecting a strong local perspective. The majority of responses (92%) came from the Gilbert Islands group, primarily from South Tarawa, while Kiritimati recorded the most responses in the Line group with 8%.

The findings highlighted strong support for tourism, with 100% of respondents from five islands with the most responses, excluding South Tarawa (92%), agreeing that tourism benefits Kiribati. However, concerns were raised about island cleanliness and limited accommodation availability, particularly from those who believed fewer tourists would be more manageable. There were also significantly different opinions between the genders, with more men (90%) than women (78%) supporting an increase in tourist numbers.

TAK would like to acknowledge the support from SPTO for analyzing the report, and the assistance from the Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs (MCIA) and the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives (MTCIC). Special thanks are also given to the New Zealand Government for its ongoing support of tourism development efforts in the region.

The survey culminated in a prize draw held during World Tourism Day on 27 September 2024, offering participants a chance to win a prize as part of the event’s celebration.

TAK would like to extend its sincere gratitude to the residents who participated in the survey. Your valuable input has played a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in Kiribati.