Tourism Authority Kiribati

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Ketia Natan

TAK REPRESENTATIVE COMPLETES BELT AND ROAD SEMINAR ON CULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY IN CHINA.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) proudly announces that Mr. Garstang Bitauea has completed the Seminar on Integration of Culture and Technology for Belt and Road Countries, held in the People’s Republic of China from 15 to 28 October 2025.

The two-week seminar brought together participants from ten countries, including Kiribati, to explore how digital innovation and cultural integration can support sustainable tourism and development.

The program focused on key themes such as artificial intelligence in cultural industries, digital preservation of heritage, and smart tourism solutions.

As part of the program, participants visited Tencent Headquarters in Beijing, cultural heritage sites like the Great Wall and the Temple of Heaven, and innovation labs in Changsha, gaining firsthand insights into China’s integration of culture and technology.

TAK extends its sincere appreciation to the Government of the People’s Republic of China, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Central Academy of Culture and Tourism Administration (CACTA) for this valuable opportunity.

The knowledge and experience gained will contribute to TAK’s ongoing efforts to embrace technology and innovation in advancing Kiribati’s tourism sector.

MISS KIRIBATI CROWNED MISS MICRONESIA 2025.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati proudly congratulates Miss Kiribati 2025, Ms. Atiterentaai Rinimarawa, who was crowned as Miss Micronesia 2025 during the pageant held in Nauru on 9th October 2025.

This historic achievement marks a significant milestone for Kiribati and the Micronesian community, as Ms. Rinimarawa becomes the first-ever Miss Micronesia, bringing honor and pride to her beloved country and region.

Throughout her journey, Miss Rinimarawa demonstrated exceptional dedication, grace, and talent as she represented Kiribati on the regional stage. Her outstanding performance earned her three special awards for these categories:

  • Best Talent Show
  • Best Mother Hubbard Wear
  • Best Canopy

Her success not only celebrates her individual excellence but also showcases the cultural richness and spirit of Kiribati. The people of Kiribati share in this proud moment as Ms. Rinimarawa’s victory becomes a source of inspiration for young women across the Pacific. She made history for Kiribati and the Micronesia region.

Cruise Ship Passengers Welcomed to Kiribati, as MS Zaandam Arrives at Tabuaeran

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A group of people walking in an open area with market stalls.

For the first time since March 2023, the people of Tabuaeran were able to welcome cruise ship passengers to their home, as Holland America Line’s MS Zaandam arrived at Paelau on the morning of Wednesday 15 October 2025.

Hundreds of passengers from around the world experienced a taste of Kiribati culture and lifestyle at Paelau Port, including handicraft stalls, performances from local schools and community groups, and swimming at picturesque beaches.

Passengers were also able to venture across the island on foot and by boat, meeting local communities and exploring snorkelling sites.

The visit was a great success for the people of Tabuaeran, providing an economic boost to local schools, business and community members, and strengthening the international perception and reputation of Tabuaeran as a tourism destination.

Two officers from the Tourism Authority of Kiribati team on Kiritimati Island helped to facilitate the visit as members of a larger boarding party that included representatives from Health, Customs, Immigration, Quarantine and Police.

In preparation for the cruise ship, TAK Tourism Officers participated in the community clean-up efforts, creating a safe and tidy environment for passengers upon arrival.

We extend our thanks to the crew of the MS Zaandam for their assistance onshore, as well as the passengers for their kindness and generosity during their time on Tabuaeran.

We also thank the Tabuaeran Island Council and the local community for their assistance in preparing the arrival site, providing entertainment and welcoming the cruise ship passengers with excitement and enthusiasm.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati looks forward to contributing to the success of future cruise ship arrivals in Tabuaeran and beyond.

TAK Launches Community-Based Tourism Experience on Butaritari Island, Kiribati.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) has officially unveiled a new community-based tourism (CBT) experience on Butaritari Island, marking the first of its kind in the northern Gilbert Group and the third CBT initiative across Kiribati.

The three-day familiarization tour, held from 11–14 September 2025, was coordinated by TAK’s Tourism Product Development Officer, Ms Kiarake Karuaki. The Honourable Minister (for Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives), Mrs Tangariki Reete, members of the TAK Board of Directors, representatives from Kiribati Coconut Development Limited (KCDL), and senior MTCIC officials participated in the event, experiencing firsthand the variety of tourism products developed by the communities on Butaritari.

Participants visited Antakana Village, Buroon Taakenraoi (Kuuma Village), Keuea Village, Tanimaiaki Village, the Utirake community in Onomwaru Village, Ukiangang Village, and Bikati Islet. Each location showcased a unique range of CBT packages, including:
• Marine-based activities – guided tours of marine protected areas and marine heritage sites.
• Cultural immersion – traditional performances such as the Nan Tekei war dance.
• Agri-tourism – hands-on experiences with the Polynesian Arrowroot (te mwakemwake).
• Battlefield tourism – visits to historic sites of the Battle of Makin, the Makin Raid, and the bombing of Keuea Village.

To ensure sustainability, TAK has formally registered CBT operators in Butaritari as cooperatives, empowering them to strengthen their operations and explore future business opportunities.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, TAK acknowledged the strong partnership of the Butaritari Island Council, the Mayor and Clerk, the Tekinati (Butaritari Unimwane Association), and especially the CBT operators themselves. Their commitment and collaboration have been vital in establishing Butaritari’s place on Kiribati’s growing tourism map.

This community-led initiative reflects a shared commitment to valuing cultural heritage and natural resources while ensuring local communities directly benefit from tourism development.

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.