Wewak: The Gateway to Papua New Guinea's Rich Heritage

• HelloTenkyu tru
  [ten-kyu true]
• GoodbyeGudbai
  [good-bye]
• YesYes
  [yes]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePlis
  [please]
• Thank youTenkyu
  [ten-kyu]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [sorry]
• How are you?Yu stap gutpela long hap?
  [you stop good-pella long hap]
• Fine. And you?Mi stap gut. Na yu?
  [me stop good. nah you]
• Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long tok Inglis?
  [you save talk-talk long talk Inglis]
• I don't understandMi no save
  [me no save]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menyu, plis
  [me like look-im menu, please]
• I don't eat meatMi no kaik kaukau
  [me no kai-kai cow-cow]
• Cheers!Haus tasol!
  [house-ta-sol]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik peim moni, plis
  [me like pay-im money, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Go lusim!
  [go loo-sim]
• Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [call-im Polis]
• Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [call-im doctor]
• I'm lostMi lusim
  [me loo-sim]
• I'm illMi sik
  [me sick]

• I'd like to buy...Mi laik baim...
  [me like buy-im]
• I'm just lookingMi tasol luk
  [me ta-sol look]
• How much is it?Em kainkain pris?
  [em kai-kai price]
• That's too expensiveEm i gutpela tumas
  [em ee good-pella too-mas]
• Can you lower the price?Yupela inap lo daunim pris?
  [you-pella in-ap low down-im price]

• What time is it?Em hamas?
  [em ha-mas]
• It's one o'clockEm i wan
  [em ee one]
• Half past (10)Long hap pas ten
  [long hap pass ten]
• MorningMonin
  [mo-nin]
• AfternoonApinun
  [ap-ee-noon]
• EveningEvenin
  [ee-vee-nin]
• YesterdayDei igo
  [day ee-go]
• TodayDei
  [day]
• TomorrowTumoro
  [too-mo-ro]
• 1Wan
  [one]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [fo]
• 5Faiv
  [five]
• 6Sikis
  [see-kis]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eit
  [eight]
• 9Nain
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Em i stap we?
  [em ee stop way]
• What's the address?Em i gat adres?
  [em ee gut address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yupela inap soim mi?
  [you-pella in-ap soy-im me]
• When's the next (bus)?Taim bilong nambawan?
  [time bilong number-one]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket go ...
  [one ticket go]

Prior to European contact, the area now known as Wewak was inhabited by various indigenous groups. These communities were adept at fishing, hunting, and agriculture, and they had intricate social structures and rich cultural traditions, including oral storytelling, dance, and unique art forms.

In the late 19th century, Wewak came under German colonial rule as part of German New Guinea. The Germans established trade and missionary activities in the region, leading to significant changes in the local way of life. However, the indigenous culture and traditions remained resilient despite these external influences.

Wewak was a strategic location during World War II and witnessed intense military activity. It became a major Japanese base after their forces captured it in 1942. The town and its surroundings were heavily bombed by Allied forces, leading to substantial destruction and loss of life. The Japanese eventually surrendered in 1945, leaving behind numerous war relics that can still be seen today.

After World War II, Wewak underwent significant reconstruction. Under Australian administration, efforts were made to rebuild the town and infrastructure. This period also saw the establishment of schools and hospitals, as well as improvements in transportation and communication networks.

Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia in 1975. Since then, Wewak has grown as a regional hub in East Sepik Province. The town has developed modern amenities, including markets, schools, and healthcare facilities, while still preserving its rich cultural heritage. The annual Sepik River Crocodile Festival and other cultural events highlight the vibrant traditions of the local communities.

Wewak is a gateway to the Sepik River, one of the most culturally significant regions in Papua New Guinea. The Sepik River is renowned for its unique art, including intricate carvings and traditional masks. Wewak serves as a starting point for exploring the river and its surrounding villages, where visitors can experience traditional ceremonies, dances, and local craftsmanship.

Wewak is accessed mainly through Wewak Airport (WEW), which has regular flights from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, as well as some other regional airports. Airlines PNG and Air Niugini operate these flights. Alternatively, you can reach Wewak by sea via coastal shipping services, though this is less common and more time-consuming.

Once in Wewak, transportation options include local taxis, which are relatively inexpensive and readily available. You can also hire a car for more flexibility, though driving conditions can be challenging due to the state of the roads. For shorter distances, walking is a viable option given the compact nature of the town. Public buses and minibuses (PMVs) operate within Wewak and can take you to nearby villages and attractions.

The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). While some hotels and larger businesses in Wewak accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash, particularly for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Wewak, but it's wise to bring sufficient cash from Port Moresby to avoid any inconvenience.

Wewak is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, so it is advisable to stay in well-known tourist areas and seek advice from locals or your hotel. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoid displaying valuables openly.

In case of emergencies, dial 111 for police, fire, or medical assistance. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Wewak has a local hospital and several clinics for medical issues. For minor health concerns, pharmacies are available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always keep emergency contact numbers handy.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local communities or religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and remove your hat. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful when using public transport. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. Some locals may prefer a more traditional greeting, so be observant. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Wewak like a local, visit the Wewak Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby beaches and the historical sites related to World War II. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the nearby islands, which offer beautiful scenery and a glimpse into traditional island life.