Tourism Authority Kiribati

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Community-based Tourism

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.

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.

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.

TAK conducts Mauri Way Customer Service Training on Butaritari Atoll

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) successfully extended the Mauri Way Customer Service Training program to tourism operators and community-based tourism businesses in Butaritari. Held from the 2nd to the 5th of April 2025 at Isle Sunset Lodge, the training focused on enhancing customer service skills to deliver exceptional and uniquely Kiribati visitor experiences.

The Mauri Way Tourism and Hospitality Customer Service Training Program is tailored to empower employees of local tourism businesses by equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to elevate customer service standards to a national level. By showcasing Kiribati’s rich culture, the program aims to foster memorable, high-quality visitor experiences.

The training comprised seven interactive modules:
1. Introduction/Overview of Te Mauri Way
2. First Impressions
3. Types of Travellers and Cultural Awareness
4. Anticipating Travellers’ Needs and Wants
5. Problem-Solving, Complaint Handling, and Conflict Management
6. Customer Service
7. Bringing It All Together

The program included dynamic activities such as interactive sessions, group discussions, role-play exercises, open forums, and Q&A sessions. It was led by Tourism Officer Monika Rikita, with support from Acting Assistant Tourism Officer Tie Manuera.

A total of 29 participants from various tourism businesses attended, including representatives from Nemat Resort, Isle Sunset Lodge, Antinbwaan Iesu Guesthouse, Te Nikabubuti Eco Lodge, Buron Takenraoi Community, Nei Rakentaai, Tekaneati, Notiruru, Butirake Community, Ukiangang Meang & Maiaki, Te Toronibwai Community, Antekana, and the Butaritari Island Council.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Mr. Kamoriki Willie, a tour guide and representative from the Butaritari Island Council, emphasized the significance of the training in supporting the diverse roles and responsibilities of those involved in local tourism businesses.

TAK extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Pacer Plus Implementation Unit for funding this crucial initiative. Appreciation is also extended to the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry, and Cooperatives for their unwavering support in implementing the training, as well as the Butaritari Island Council for their invaluable assistance during the program.

Butaritari Island Gears Up for a Major Tourism Milestone

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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 supports Kiritimati island’s Beautification Initiative

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The Kiritimati Island TAK team took a huge role in being part of the organizing committee to promote the beautification, gardening, sanitation, and water hygiene competition on Kiritimati Island. The competition was held between 30 registered households as part of the 45th Kiribati Independence Day event in July. The competition was initially planned and implemented in 2022 and will be a continuous activity for households on Kiritimati to participate and compete.

The purpose of the competition is to promote a cleaner and healthier Kiritimati Island community that will contribute to achieving Kiritimati Island’s aspiration of being a “New Paradise.”

This initiative was chaired and promoted by the Ministry of Lands, Environment & Agricultural Development through its Agriculture Division based on the island and was joined by other stakeholders from the Wildlife Unit, Ministry of Line Islands, the WASH project, and the TAK team who formed the organizing committee.

The Ministry of Linnix awarded a competition prize of $1,500, and the WASH project donated 30 filter buckets to participants. These participants were involved in cleaning water tank catchments to ensure accessible drinking water, building cooking huts for boiling water, and installing tippy taps for hand washing.

The 30 registered households participated in the competition and were all commended for their creativity and innovations in creating their household tippy taps, and waste reduction methods, and for promoting home vegetable gardening, growing cabbage, cucumber, pawpaw, and other vegetables.

Abemama Island revisited to re-engage Community-Based Tourism Operators.

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After launching Abemama as a tourism-ready island in 2022, the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) has revisited the island to support and evaluate tourism operators as part of its sustainability plan. TAK conducted a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) assessment from May 10th to 19th, focusing on Community-Based Tourism (CBT) operators.

This initial M&E mission aimed to ensure ongoing engagement with CBT operators, maintaining strong partnerships and successful tourism operations. During the visit, Ms. Kiarake Karuaki introduced the concept of homestay development to CBT operators. She emphasized how homestays can complement existing tour programs, highlighting the potential for tourism to grow and benefit the community. Homestays, being a popular trend in the travel industry, offer authentic experiences that can enhance the appeal of Abemama.

As part of the mission, TAK established the Abemama Tourism Working Group Committee. This committee includes representatives from tour operators, accommodation providers, and the island council. Its purpose is to oversee tourism operations, address challenges, and ensure smooth and effective management. The executive body of the committee will play a crucial role in coordinating efforts and supporting the tourism sector on the island.
The M&E mission reflects TAK’s ongoing commitment to supporting CBT operators. By continuously monitoring and evaluating tourism operations, TAK aims to strengthen partnerships and ensure sustainable tourism development on Abemama.