Papua New Guinea

The National Flag of Papua New Guinea

The national flag of Papua New Guinea is a distinctive symbol representing the country’s rich cultural heritage and its diverse traditions. The flag features a unique design with two main elements: the Southern Cross constellation and the Raggiana bird-of-paradise. Each component of the flag reflects the nation’s history, geography, and values, making it a powerful emblem of national identity.

Papua New Guinea Flag Clip Art Images, Backgrounds, and Wallpapers

Free Download of the Papua New Guinea Flag Image

To download an image of the Papua New Guinea flag, right-click on the image and select “Save image as…” on a desktop or laptop. On a mobile device, press and hold on the image, then select “Download image” or “Save image” from the options that appear.

For Apple (iPhone/iPad):

• Press and hold the image.
• A menu will appear; tap “Add to Photos” or “Save Image.”

For Android:

• Press and hold the image.
• From the menu that appears, choose “Download image” or “Save image.”

This will save the image to your device’s photo gallery or downloads folder.

Design and Colors of the Papua New Guinea Flag

The Papua New Guinea flag features a design that is rich in symbolism and meaning:

• Red and Black: The flag is divided diagonally from the top left to the bottom right. The upper triangle is red, representing the traditional colors of many tribes, and the lower triangle is black, reflecting the country’s cultural heritage.
• Southern Cross: The lower black section displays five white stars arranged to represent the Southern Cross constellation, symbolizing Papua New Guinea’s geographical position in the southern hemisphere and its connection to other Pacific nations.
• Raggiana Bird-of-Paradise: The red upper section of the flag features a golden Raggiana bird-of-paradise in flight, representing freedom and Papua New Guinea’s rich natural resources and diverse wildlife.

The Origins and Design of the Papua New Guinea Flag

The flag of Papua New Guinea was officially adopted on July 1, 1971, and was designed by a then 15-year-old student named Susan Karike. The design was chosen through a national competition, and it reflects the unity and identity of the nation as it moved towards independence.

The Birth of a National Symbol

Before the current flag was adopted, Papua New Guinea used various flags under colonial rule. The present flag, with its unique design, was introduced in anticipation of the country’s independence from Australia, which was formally achieved on September 16, 1975. The flag’s elements emphasize the country’s connection to both its cultural roots and its aspirations as a sovereign state.

Evolution of the Flag’s Symbolism

The symbolism of the Papua New Guinea flag has deepened as the nation has grown. The red, black, and gold colors are prevalent in traditional art and ceremonial attire, while the bird-of-paradise has become a national icon, signifying freedom and the rich biodiversity of the country.

The Central Design Elements

The central design elements of the Papua New Guinea flag include the Southern Cross and the bird-of-paradise:

• Southern Cross: Represents the country’s location in the southern hemisphere and its connections with other Pacific nations.
• Bird-of-Paradise: Symbolizes freedom and the unique natural heritage of Papua New Guinea.

Adoption and Official Recognition

The current design of the Papua New Guinea flag was officially adopted on July 1, 1971, and has since become a symbol of national pride and unity. The flag is prominently displayed during national holidays, significant events, and international representations, reflecting the nation’s sovereignty and identity.

The Flag in Modern Papua New Guinean Identity

Today, the Papua New Guinea flag is a prominent symbol of national pride and unity. It is flown during national holidays, cultural festivals, and international events. The flag also plays a central role in government institutions and is a key element in national celebrations, serving as a reminder of the country’s independence and cultural richness.

The Significance of the Papua New Guinea Flag

The flag of Papua New Guinea holds a deep significance for its people, symbolizing the nation’s history, cultural diversity, and aspirations. Displaying the Papua New Guinea flag is an act of national pride and respect, and it is done according to specific traditions and guidelines that honor the nation’s values.

When the Flag of Papua New Guinea Can Be Displayed

The flag of Papua New Guinea may be displayed on any day, especially during national celebrations, important cultural events, and international representations. It should always be treated with respect, never touching the ground, and should be handled with care. Citizens are encouraged to display the flag at their homes, schools, and businesses during national holidays and significant commemorations.

Flag Days and National Holidays

In Papua New Guinea, there are several official flag days and national holidays when the flag is prominently displayed:

• July 1 – National Flag Day: This day commemorates the adoption of the Papua New Guinea flag in 1971. Ceremonies across the country honor the flag, and people are encouraged to display it proudly.
• September 16 – Independence Day: This is the most important national holiday in Papua New Guinea, marking the country’s independence from Australia in 1975. The flag is central to the celebrations, with parades, cultural performances, and patriotic displays nationwide.

Love for the Flag and National Pride

The Papua New Guinea flag is not just a national symbol; it is a representation of the pride and unity of its people. The flag’s design—featuring the Southern Cross and the bird-of-paradise—embodies the nation’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and enduring spirit. Papua New Guineans demonstrate their love for the flag and their national pride in various ways, from displaying it at their homes and public events to including it in traditional clothing and art.

Papua New Guinea Flag Emoji Codes

1. Unicode Code Points

• Unicode: U+1F1F5 U+1F1EC
• UTF-16: D83C DDF5 D83C DDEC

2. HTML Entities

• HTML Entity (Decimal): 🇵🇬
• HTML Entity (Hexadecimal): 🇵🇬

3. CSS

content: "\1F1F5\1F1EC";

4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java

// JavaScript Example
const pngFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEC";

// Java Example
String pngFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEC";

5. PHP & Ruby

// PHP Example
$pngFlag = "\u{1F1F5}\u{1F1EC}";

// Ruby Example
png_flag = "\u{1F1F5}\u{1F1EC}"

6. Perl

my $pngFlag = "\x{1F1F5}\x{1F1EC}";

7. Python

png_flag = "\U0001F1F5\U0001F1EC"

8. C#

string pngFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEC";

9. Swift

let pngFlag = "\u{1F1F5}\u{1F1EC}"

10. Objective-C

NSString *pngFlag = @"\U0001F1F5\U0001F1EC";

11. JSON

{
  "pngFlag": "\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEC"
}

12. SQL

INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEC');

13. Shell Scripting (Bash)

png_flag=$'\U1F1F5\U1F1EC'

14. Go (Golang)

pngFlag := "\U0001F1F5\U0001F1EC"

15. Kotlin

val pngFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEC"

About Papua New Guinea

Geography and Topography

Location and Geography

Papua New Guinea is located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, occupying the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and numerous smaller islands. It shares a border with Indonesia to the west. Its diverse geography includes:

• Tropical rainforests covering vast areas of the country
• Mountain ranges, such as the Owen Stanley Range
• Volcanic regions, particularly in the Bismarck Archipelago
• Coastlines along the Coral Sea and the Pacific Ocean
• Rivers like the Sepik and Fly Rivers
• Coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity

Papua New Guinea Map

Area and Population

Papua New Guinea covers an area of approximately 462,840 square kilometers, making it the third-largest island nation in the world. As of 2023, the population is estimated to be around 9.7 million people, with a rich diversity of languages and cultures.

Demographics and Ethnic Composition

Papua New Guinea is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, with over 800 indigenous languages. The ethnic composition includes:

• Melanesians: the majority ethnic group
• Papuan people: native to the highland and coastal areas
• Smaller populations of Polynesians and Micronesians

Name and History

Origin of the Name “Papua New Guinea”

The name “Papua” comes from a Malay word describing the frizzy hair of the indigenous people, while “New Guinea” was named by a Spanish explorer in the 16th century who noted similarities between the people and those of Guinea in Africa.

History

The history of Papua New Guinea is rooted in its ancient indigenous cultures, with human settlement dating back over 50,000 years. Key historical events include:

• European exploration in the 16th and 17th centuries
• Colonization by Germany and Britain in the 19th century
• Australian administration following World War I
• Independence from Australia in 1975

Government and Politics

Capital

Port Moresby is the capital of Papua New Guinea. As the seat of government, it is home to important institutions like the National Parliament and government ministries.

Government and Politics

Papua New Guinea operates as a constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy. The government is divided into three branches: the executive, led by the Prime Minister, the legislative, consisting of the National Parliament, and the judiciary. The country is part of the Commonwealth, recognizing the British monarch as head of state.

Values and Culture

Key values in Papua New Guinea include community, respect for elders, and the preservation of traditional customs. The country is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant traditional art forms, including dance, music, and craftsmanship.

Religion

Christianity is the predominant religion in Papua New Guinea, with over 95% of the population identifying as Christians. Traditional indigenous beliefs are often practiced alongside Christianity.

Holidays

Major public holidays in Papua New Guinea include:

• Independence Day on September 16
• Good Friday and Easter Monday
• Christmas and Boxing Day

Demographics and Society

Language

Papua New Guinea is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world, with over 800 languages spoken. The official languages are English, Tok Pisin, and Hiri Motu, with Tok Pisin being the most widely spoken language in everyday communication.

Society and Sports

Papua New Guinea has a rich tradition of community-oriented activities, including sports. Rugby League is the most popular sport, followed by soccer and cricket. Traditional sports and games are also an important part of village life.

Safety

Safety in Papua New Guinea varies by region. While rural areas and smaller towns are generally peaceful, some urban areas like Port Moresby experience higher levels of crime. The government is focused on improving safety and law enforcement throughout the country.

Economy and Currency

Economy

Papua New Guinea’s economy is largely based on agriculture, mining, and natural resources. Key economic sectors include:

• Agriculture, including coffee, cocoa, and palm oil
• Mining, particularly gold, copper, and oil
• Fisheries and forestry
• Tourism, with a focus on eco-tourism and cultural heritage

The country relies on exports for economic growth, particularly in natural resources.

Currency

The official currency of Papua New Guinea is the Kina (PGK), which is subdivided into 100 toea.

Culture and Arts

Culture and Arts

Papua New Guinea is known for its diverse and vibrant cultures. Traditional art forms include wood carving, painting, weaving, and body decoration. Cultural festivals, such as the Goroka Show and the Mt. Hagen Cultural Show, celebrate the country’s rich heritage.

Cuisine

Papua New Guinean cuisine is influenced by its tropical environment and traditional subsistence farming. Key dishes include:

• Root vegetables like sweet potatoes (kaukau) and taro
• Fish and seafood, especially in coastal areas
• Mumu, a traditional dish cooked in an earth oven, consisting of meat, vegetables, and greens

National Anthem

The national anthem of Papua New Guinea is “O Arise, All You Sons,” which celebrates the country’s independence and unity. It has been the official anthem since independence in 1975.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Transportation

Papua New Guinea has a developing transportation network, with roads primarily connecting major towns and cities. Air travel is crucial for reaching remote areas, and small planes often serve isolated communities. The country’s main international airport is Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby.

Time Zones

Papua New Guinea operates on a single time zone, PNG Time (UTC+10).

Web and Phone Code

Papua New Guinea’s internet country code is “.pg,” and its international dialing code is +675.

Papua New Guinea: Things to See and Do

Papua New Guinea offers a wealth of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure opportunities. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Papua New Guinea:

Explore National Parks

Papua New Guinea is home to diverse ecosystems and protected areas.

• Kokoda Track: A historical and challenging trekking route, known for its significance in World War II.
• Tawali Resort: A popular spot for diving, offering access to rich coral reefs and marine life.
• Varirata National Park: Known for its birdwatching opportunities, including the famous Bird of Paradise.

Enjoy Beautiful Beaches

Papua New Guinea has some of the most pristine beaches in the world, ideal for relaxation and water activities.

• Madang: Famous for its coral reefs and diving spots.
• Tufi: A fjord-like area known for its stunning landscapes and secluded beaches.
• New Ireland: Offers beautiful beaches and opportunities for surfing and diving.

Savor the Cuisine

Papua New Guinea’s traditional cuisine is deeply rooted in its agricultural practices. Must-try dishes include:

• Mumu: A traditional earth oven dish with meat, vegetables, and sweet potatoes.
• Sago: A starchy food made from the sago palm, commonly eaten in coastal regions.
• Fish and coconut dishes: Staple foods along the coasts, reflecting the country’s rich marine life.

Explore Vibrant Cities

Although most of Papua New Guinea is rural, its cities offer unique cultural and historical experiences.

• Port Moresby: The capital city, with sites like the National Parliament House and Ela Beach.
• Lae: Known as the “Gateway to the Highlands” and a major industrial center.
• Goroka: Famous for its annual cultural festival, the Goroka Show.

Visit Natural Wonders

Papua New Guinea boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, from mountains to rainforests.

• Mount Wilhelm: The highest peak in Papua New Guinea, popular for trekking and offering panoramic views.
• Sepik River: One of the longest rivers in the world, home to unique wildlife and traditional villages.
• Rabaul Volcano: An active volcano offering dramatic scenery and historical significance.

Participate in Cultural Festivals

Cultural festivals are a key part of life in Papua New Guinea, showcasing its rich traditions.

• Goroka Show: A major cultural festival featuring traditional dances, music, and colorful attire.
• Hagen Show: Another prominent festival, celebrating the cultures of the Highlands region.
• Kenu and Kundu Festival: Celebrates the maritime culture of the Milne Bay Province with traditional canoe races and performances.

Relax in Quaint Villages

For an authentic experience, visit Papua New Guinea’s rural villages, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and hospitality.

• Kokopo: A peaceful town near Rabaul, offering historical sites and beautiful views of the volcano.
• Tufi: Known for its fjord-like scenery and traditional village experiences.

Discover Underwater Wonders

Papua New Guinea is a premier destination for diving and snorkeling.

• Kimbe Bay: Famous for its coral reefs and diverse marine species.
• Milne Bay: A top spot for underwater exploration, with wrecks, reefs, and marine biodiversity.