About Us

About Kokoda Spirit

Kokoda Spirit is Australia and PNG’s most respected and professional company, specialising in trekking The Kokoda Track.

We have been operating in PNG since 2004 and we have escorted over 8500 trekkers and more than 55 expeditions a year safely across The Kokoda Track.

We believe we are the largest provider of life changing and empowering treks across Kokoda.

Kokoda Spirit also supports a large range of Charities and Foundations with raising funds and awareness for their causes.

We understand no other operator has led more treks or trekkers across The Kokoda Track than Kokoda Spirit.

We are also the largest employee of PNG Guides, Carriers and Porters and employ our staff from the Villages and surrounding areas of the Kokoda Trail corridor. Our locally based PNG Guides were born or raised along the Kokoda Track and are all qualified, trained and English speaking. Naturally they have an intimate knowledge of The Kokoda Track and can show our trekkers things that you wouldn’t otherwise find.

We are proud to employ locals and provide income, training and a career to the local people of the Kokoda Trail.

We also believe we are the largest provider of trek fees to the Kokoda Track Authority. These fees are the lifeblood to sustain the ongoing work of the KTA.

We also believe we contribute the highest amount of campsite fees and site fees for to assist in the upkeep of significant war sites. We source fresh fruit and vegetables from local landowners.

Our business is registered in Australia as Kokoda Spirit Pty Ltd and we are registered with the PNG Internal Revenue Commission in PNG as Kokoda Spirit PNG Limited.

We operate within the laws and requirements of both countries and pay our tax in both Australia and PNG.

Our PNG employees are registered with the PNG Internal Revenue Commission for income tax. This ensures they are covered for tax and superannuation benefits.

We do not sub contract out our logistics in PNG to third party organisations.

We are proud to be an Australian and PNG registered and based company that employs locals and generates real benefits for PNG.

Our locally based PNG Guides were born or raised along the Kokoda Track corridor or Northern Beaches areas and are all qualified, trained and English speaking.

Naturally they have an intimate knowledge of The Kokoda Track and can show our trekkers things that you wouldn’t otherwise discover.

We are proud to employ locals and provide income, training and a career to the local people of the Kokoda Trail.

Our PNG Guides are professionally trained in first aid, food preparation, river crossings, risk management and trekker safety.

Our PNG Guides and Senior PNG Staff all go through a rigorous training process, which includes track first aid at the start of every trekking season.

A fully qualified Paramedic Trainer provides this training.

We also have access to our specialist Wilderness Nurse who can assist with porter health.

Our Porters and Carriers are also briefed and resourced with knowledge and equipment to allow them to work in a healthy environment.

We provide group porter medical kits.

We pay camp site fees for each of our porters.

Each Kokoda Trek has a trained first aid porter who carries a porter medical kit.

Each Kokoda Trek has a professionally trained rope and river-crossing specialist.

Each Kokoda Trek has trained cooks and camp staff that supply, prepare and cook our Porters hearty and healthy meals.

We pay our Kokoda Trekking Guides and Porters well above the industry average and well above the recommended amount specified by the Kokoda Track Authority.

Our Porters and Guides are on an upwards sliding pay scale from General Porter through too Senior Trek Master. We promote from within giving each porter the possibility of advancing his career.

Our Porters carry less than the specified weight recommended by the Kokoda Track authority and less than the International Porters code. Our Porters carry between 12 -20kgs. The maximum weight our Porters carry on day one of their trek is 20kgs. Our Porters weight is re distributed each day ensuring their pack weights are reduced by a minimum of 2.5 kgs each day.

The Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) approved weight for porters/carriers is 22.5kg.

We pay for Porter flights/transport to and from the Kokoda track or we pay them a walk back wage plus supply them food or food money for the walk.

We supply camping equipment, sleeping mat and sleeping bag and uniform for our staff.

Our porters and guides do not walk at night as this is an unacceptable risk to our employees and trekkers.

We operate our Kokoda treks across the original War Time Track.

Kokoda Spirit is a proud Foundation Member of The Kokoda Tour Operators Association. (KTOA) www.ktoa.com.au

We were also part of the Foundation Committee that assisted in the design and implementation of the Kokoda Trekking Companies Code of Conduct and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors MAICD.

Kokoda Spirit complies with all licence requirements for its operations including the Commercial Kokoda Track Operators Licence, holding Licence No.3.

All our travel arrangements are completed through Spirit Holidays – Travel Agents Licence TAG1611.

We also carry a $20 million Public Liability Policy.

Kokoda Spirit has a comprehensive risk management plan that includes a comprehensive 24 hour back to base communication protocol.

Kokoda Spirit is a specialised Australian and PNG adventure trekking company taking school groups, sporting teams, charities, foundations, corporate groups and individuals across the famous an iconic Kokoda Track.

Our Australian Guides are very experienced with numerous Kokoda Track crossings and our Managing Director Wayne Wetherall has trekked Kokoda in excess of 95 times, and has led more than 130 expeditions including The Kokoda Track, Borneo, Nepal and Kilimanjaro.

All our Australian and PNG guides have a great knowledge of the Kokoda Track and its history. Our Australian Guides excel at remote first aid.

Our PNG Guides are professionally trained in first aid, food preparation, river crossing across the Kokoda Trail, risk management and trekker safety.

Our PNG Guides and Senior PNG Staff undertake a rigorous training process at the start of every Kokoda Trekking Season.

Our Porters and Carriers are also briefed and resourced with knowledge and equipment.

We are proud of the diversity in experience of our Australian Guides.

Our Australian Guides range from Military men that have served in Afghanistan, Vietnam, Timor and Somalia, our other Australian guides are specialist teachers, business and community leaders that love to share their knowledge of the history and culture of the Kokoda Track.

We can give you options with our great cross section of Australian Guides that represent an incredibly diverse outlook on life.

Our priority is the safety of our Kokoda Trekkers. Our staff are focused on ensuring that all of our trekkers cross the Kokoda Track safely and enjoy their experience.

We do not walk Kokoda at night, deeming it an unacceptable risk to our trekkers and PNG staff.

It is also worth noting that all our Australian led treks have two senior local guides on the trek with you, they are our Trek Master and Trek Leader plus, an Australian Historical Guide.

We provide comprehensive and informative pre trek information and have an exclusive training program, designed specifically for our Kokoda Track Adventures.

Safety

Our priority is the safety of our Kokoda trekkers. All our staff are focused on ensuring that all our Kokoda trekkers cross the Kokoda Track safely and enjoy their experience.

We have developed and adhere to an extensive risk and safety management procedures for all our treks. We have contingency plans in place and 24-hour back up, with satellite phones.

We have First Aid trained guides and first aid kits carried on every Kokoda trip and we also carry $20 million in Public Liability insurance.

We will also provide you with a comprehensive medical form that must be completed by your Doctor before you participate to make sure that you are in peak condition for Kokoda.

Our food is varied with a healthy supply of fresh and delicious meals prepared by our 3 pot Chefs on the Kokoda Track for you.
We do not use dehydrated food or ration packs.

We also cater for specific dietary requirements.

Kokoda Trekkers who engage a porter will enjoy many additional benefits including having their tent put up and taken down each day. We can also supply you a range of trekking, camping and hydration gear that has been tried and tested on Kokoda http://www.kokodaspirit.com.au/booknow/trekking-gearlist-2/

Our packages are designed to eliminate any hidden extras and to make the logistics and organising of your trek hassle free and great value for money.

Kokoda Spirit has helped organise and lead several Defence force treks along the Kokoda Track. A range of testimonials can be found on our website.

OUR ADVENTURE PARTNERS

Kokoda Spirit has helped to organise and lead a host of corporate groups, school groups, Defence groups, charities, individual clients and celebrities across the Kokoda Track.

We have worked closely and trekked with Paralympian and Adventurer Michael Milton, Paralympian Kurt Fearnley (Crawling Kokoda), Paralympian, Author and Motivational, speaker Don Elgin, Rugby League Legend, Paul “The Chief” Harragon, NRL Premiership winning players Mark Hughes and Billy Peden, Australian Rugby League representative players David Fairleigh and Brad Godden, Manu Feidel from MKR, Kate Peck model and MTV presenter, Miss Universe Australia Laura Dundovic and Miss World Australia Erin Holland. Trent Robinson triple Premiership winning Coach with the NRL Sydney Roosters.

In The Media:

Kokoda Spirit was privileged to be the chosen trekking company by the producers of “Kokoda” the movie and has appeared on Channel Seven’s Sunday Night Program, Channel Seven’s Today Tonight program and Channel 9s coverage of ANZAC Day with Simon Bouda. We have also had an ABC Foreign Correspondent trek with us and have had articles published in The Australian, Sydney Morning Herald Age, Courier Mail, Japan Times newspapers and Air Niugini In-flight Magazine.

Our Foundation, Organisations And Charities Have Included:

National Breast Cancer Foundation (Kokoda Chicks)	Heart Foundation	Soldier On	Blind Courage (Guide Dogs Australia)
Smiling for Smiddy	Mission Australia	Indigenous Marathon Foundation	Autism Victoria
RSL Life Care	Mark Hughes Foundation	Kokoda for Koda	ANGLS (Aussie Nurses Giving Life)
Centacare	PTSD Association Canberra	Give Me Five For Kids	Bully Zero Foundation Australia
Cotton On	Coca-Cola	Qantas	CUFA (Credit Union Foundation Australia)
Barrack Gold Corporation	Wood and Grieve Engineers	Zing	Centre Stage Management
Cams Cause	Humpty Dumpty Foundation	Avner Pancreatic Cancer Foundation	Chocolate Box Training
Alzheimer’s Australia	Wish You Were Here Foundation	Rotarians Against Malaria	EFM Health Clubs
Blue Hope Police Foundation	Lyme Disease Foundation	MBA Business Consultants	360 Athlete
MTA Travel Agents	TAL	AEA Animal Emergency Australia	Wotton & Kearney

Our School Groups Have Included:

Haileybury College	Newcastle Grammar	Berne School	Nhulunbuy High School
Rostrevor College	St Ignatius Riverview College	Hale School	Yarrawonga Secondary College
Mackillop College	Sunshine Coast Grammar	Victorian College of Deaf	Knox Grammar
Ravenswood School for Girls	St Luke’s Anglican Bundaberg	St Hilda’s College (Melbourne Uni)	MASP
Ela Murray International School Port Moresby	Mirboo North Secondary College	Chancellor Park State College	Murray High School
Surf Coast High School Torquay	Yarrawonga College	Brighton Grammar	Lindisfarne School
St Columba Anglican School	Mount Clear College

Our Defence & Para Military Force Groups Have Included:

Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA)	Victorian RSL	39th Battalion	Australia’s Federation Guard
HMAS Darwin	HMAS Coonawarra	48th Battalion	Australian Federal Police
Queensland Police Service	RAAF Townsville	Army Logistic Training Centre	Army HQ 1 Div Joint Deployable Force
HMAS Newcastle	Australian Border Protection	Royal Australian Navy Recruit School HMAS Cerberus	HMAS Hobart

Our Leadership & Mentoring Groups Have Included:

Y Lead Youth Leadership Program	MASP Youth Leadership	Kokoda Challenge Youth Program	Jobs Australia Indigenous program
NSW Young Achievers Rugby League team	Camp Quality	Cams Cause	Soulful Concepts
Priority Advisory Group	The Growth Project

You can also find a range of testimonials on our website HERE.

For our local PNG led treks our average group size is 7.

For our Australian led treks the average group size is 11.

Why Trek With Kokoda Spirit

We Offer The Complete Experience On The Kokoda Trail

Kokoda Spirit is Australia and PNG’s most respected and professional company, specialising in trekking the Kokoda Trail.

We have been operating in PNG and the Kokoda Track since 2004 and we have escorted over 9500 trekkers and more than 55 expeditions a year safely across the Kokoda Trail.

Kokoda Spirit prides itself on its friendly, professional and knowledgeable staff…they truly make all the difference and ensure that all our Kokoda Trail trekkers have a safe and memorable trip across the Kokoda Track.

Kokoda Spirit also supports a large range of Charities and Foundations with raising funds and awareness for their causes.

We can give you options to walk the Kokoda Trail with our great cross section of Australian Guides that represent an incredibly diverse outlook on life.

We offer a range of Kokoda Trail tours and Kokoda Trail treks depending on your requirements and all of our Kokoda Trail tour packages are designed to eliminate any hidden extras and to make the logistics and organising of your Kokoda Trail trek hassle free and great value for money.

We Have The Runs On The Board

We have a wealth of Kokoda Trail experience and have been operating in PNG and along the Kokoda Track since 2004. Over 9500 Kokoda Trail trekkers’ have now successfully and happily trekked the Kokoda Track with us.

Australian Defence Force organisations and Australian Para Military organisations, Corporate, Schools, Sporting Teams, Charities and Foundations have chosen and continue to choose Kokoda Spirit for our professionalism and in-depth knowledge of the Kokoda Track and the battles along the Kokoda trail.

While we love working with our Defence Force groups, we do promise not to treat you like a raw recruit or march you in platoon or company size groups across the Kokoda Trail!

OUR ADVENTURE PARTNERS

Kokoda Spirit has helped to organise and lead a host of corporate groups, school groups, Defence groups, charities, individual clients and celebrities across the Kokoda Track.

We have worked closely and trekked with Paralympian and Adventurer Michael Milton, Paralympian Kurt Fearnley (Crawling Kokoda), Paralympian, author and motivational, speaker Don Elgin.

Rugby League Legend, Paul “The Chief” Harragon, NRL Premiership winning players Mark Hughes and Billy Peden, Australian Rugby League representative players David Fairleigh and Brad Godden.

Manu Feidel from MKR, Kate Peck model and MTV presenter, Miss Universe Australia, Laura Dundovic, and Miss World Australia, Erin Holland.

IN THE MEDIA

Kokoda Spirit has also been privileged enough to be the chosen Kokoda Trail trekking company by the producers of “Kokoda” the movie and has appeared on Channel Seven’s Sunday Night Program and Channel Seven’s Today Tonight program.

Journalist and television presenter, Simon Bouda, Channel 9, chose Kokoda Spirit to assist with coverage of 2017 ANZAC Day ceremony at Isurava Memorial on the Kokoda Track.

Our Foundation, Organisations & Charities Have Included:

National Breast Cancer Foundation (Kokoda Chicks)	Heart Foundation	Soldier On	Blind Courage (Guide Dogs Australia)
Smiling for Smiddy	Mission Australia	Indigenous Marathon Foundation	Autism Victoria
RSL Life Care	Mark Hughes Foundation	Kokoda for Koda	ANGLS (Aussie Nurses Giving Life)
Centacare	PTSD Association Canberra	Give Me Five For Kids	Bully Zero Foundation Australia
Cotton On	Coca-Cola	Qantas	CUFA (Credit Union Foundation Australia)
Barrack Gold Corporation	Wood and Grieve Engineers	Zing	Centre Stage Management
Cams Cause	Humpty Dumpty Foundation	Avner Pancreatic Cancer Foundation	Chocolate Box Training
Alzheimer’s Australia	Wish You Were Here Foundation	Rotarians Against Malaria	EFM Health Clubs
Blue Hope Police Foundation	Lyme Disease Foundation	MBA Business Consultants	360 Athlete
MTA Travel Agents	TAL	AEA Animal Emergency Australia	Wotton & Kearney

Our Leadership and Mentoring groups have included.

Y Lead Youth Leadership Program	MASP Youth Leadership	Kokoda Challenge Youth Program	Jobs Australia Indigenous program
NSW Young Achievers Rugby League team	Camp Quality	Cams Cause	Soulful Concepts
Priority Advisory Group	The Growth Project

Our Defence and Para Military Force Groups Include.

Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA)	Victorian RSL	39th Battalion	Australia’s Federation Guard
HMAS Darwin	HMAS Coonawarra	48th Battalion	Australian Federal Police
Queensland Police Service	RAAF Townsville	Army Logistic Training Centre	Army Logistic Training Centre
HMAS Newcastle	Australian Border Protection	Royal Australian Navy Recruit School HMAS Cerberus	HMAS Hobart

Our School Groups have included;

Haileybury College	Newcastle Grammar	Berne School	Nhulunbuy High School
Rostrevor College	St Ignatius Riverview College	Hale School	Yarrawonga Secondary College
Mackillop College	Sunshine Coast Grammar	Victorian College of Deaf	Knox Grammar
Ravenswood School for Girls	St Luke’s Anglican Bundaberg	St Hilda’s College (Melbourne Uni)	MASP
Ela Murray International School Port Moresby	Mirboo North Secondary College	Chancellor Park State College	Murray High School
Surf Coast High School Torquay	Yarrawonga College	Brighton Grammar	Lindisfarne School
St Columba Anglican School	Mount Clear Cottage

Media

Channel Seven Sunday Night Program, Channel 7 Today Tonight program (twice), ABC Foreign Correspondent, Channel Nine 60 Minutes Program (Twice) articles in The Australian, Sydney Morning Herald Age, Courier Mail, Japan Times newspapers and Air Niugini In-flight Magazine.

We run trips for the annual Queensland Police Service Kokoda Trail trek, and we are proud of our past association with the Kokoda Challenge Youth Program (KCYP).

Kokoda Spirit also continues its relationship with the MASP Youth Leadership Mentoring program in Victoria and has done so for the past 13 years leading trips across the Kokoda Trail.

We have also been involved with Jobs Australia and their Indigenous Youth Leadership programs having led a group of Indigenous Leaders and Mentors across the Kokoda Track in their leadership program.
We organise and lead a number of school trips across the Kokoda Trail. Our school group’s focus is on the history of the Kokoda track, community projects, including immersion, humanitarian and student empowerment and leadership projects.

Managing Director Wayne Wetherall was part of the Foundation Committee that assisted in the design and implementation of the Kokoda Trail trekking companies Code of Conduct. Wayne was also a member of the Kokoda Track Maintenance Advisory Committee.

We Love The Kokoda Trail

We do, we really love the Kokoda Trail, which is why we keep going back! We love the Kokoda Trail, its story, we love its people, and we love its beauty and we’re confident that you’ll feel exactly the same after your experience.

The Kokoda Track is a special place that we’re passionate about, that we care about and respect. We want to keep it special and although we’re not perfect, we try very hard to minimise our impact along the Kokoda track by delivering an exceptional eco-trekking experience.

We Won't Hide Anything From You

We offer competitive pricing on all-inclusive Kokoda Trail Tour trek packages, including 5 Star pre- and post-accommodation and many extras that some other companies may not mention. We’re reliable and we deliver on our promised Kokoda Trail services!

We Help You Plan for The Kokoda Trail

We provide excellent, friendly pre–Kokoda Trail trek administration and professional advice and fact sheets, with attention to detail in preparing for your Kokoda Trail trek.
We can supply all your Kokoda Trail trekking, camping and hydration needs.

We Help You Train for The Kokoda Trail

We can provide you with a Kokoda Trail training program, excellent, friendly pre–Kokoda Trail trek administration and professional advice and fact sheets, with attention to detail in preparing for your Kokoda Trail tour.

We can also supply all of your Kokoda Track trekking, camping and hydration needs.

See our Kokoda training plan

Kokoda Trail Accreditation

We are fully licensed and adhere to the Kokoda Track Trekking Code of Conduct and the laws and regulations of both Australia and PNG. We hold KTA Licence No.3 for trekking the Kokoda Trail.

We Go Local on the Kokoda Trail

Not only is ‘going local’ the best way for you to have a real Kokoda Trail tour and Kokoda Track trek experience, but working with the local Kokoda Trail people and their businesses means that the economic benefit derived from your Kokoda Trail trek stays with the local community.

We have excellent relationships with the Kokoda Trail villages, communities and elders along the Kokoda track and will continue to work with the local people in PNG and along the Kokoda Track to ensure everyone benefits from this once in a lifetime experience.

We exclusively use local Kokoda Trail guides who were born or raised along the Kokoda Track. They are all highly qualified, trained and English speaking and their intimate knowledge of the Kokoda track will show you things that you wouldn’t otherwise find. You’ll also experience the Kokoda track from a uniquely local perspective even meeting their friends and family along the journey.

Aside from the benefit to you, the traveller, we are proud to say that by employing locals, we are providing income, training and a career to local people along the Kokoda Trail corridor.

With Kokoda Spirit, you can trek the Kokoda Trail knowing that the money you spend directly benefits your Kokoda Trail local leader, the porters and their families and the local Kokoda Trail community. In as many ways as we can, we support local businesses and communities in our travels along the Kokoda Track, it’s the ethical way. It is the only way to get a true understanding of PNG and the Kokoda Track.

Our locally based Kokoda Trail PNG Guides were born or raised along the Kokoda Track corridor or Northern Beaches areas and are all qualified, trained and English speaking.

Naturally they have an intimate knowledge of the Kokoda Track and can show our trekkers things that you wouldn’t otherwise discover.

We are proud to employ locals and provide income, training and a career to the local people of the Kokoda Trail.

Our Kokoda Track PNG Guides are professionally trained for the Kokoda Trail in first aid, food preparation, river crossings, risk management and trekker safety.

Our Kokoda Track PNG Guides and Senior PNG Staff all go through a rigorous Kokoda Trail training process, which includes Kokoda Track first aid at the start of every Kokoda Spirit, Kokoda Trail trekking season.

A fully qualified Paramedic Trainer provides this training.

Our Kokoda Trail Porters and Carriers are also briefed and resourced with knowledge and equipment to allow them to work in a healthy Kokoda Trail environment.

We provide Kokoda Trail group porter medical kits.

We pay camp site fees for each of our porters along the Kokoda Track.

Each Kokoda Trail Tour and Kokoda Spirit trek has a trained first aid porter who carries a porter medical kit

Each Kokoda Trail trek has a professionally trained rope and river-crossing specialist.

Each Kokoda Trail trek has trained cooks and camp staff that supply, prepare and cook our Porters hearty and healthy meals.

We pay our Kokoda Trail Trek Guides and Porters well above the industry average and well above the recommended amount specified by the Kokoda Track Authority.

Our Kokoda Trail Porters and Guides are on an upwards sliding pay scale from General Porter through too Senior Trek Master. We promote from within giving each Kokoda Spirit, Kokoda Trail porter the possibility of advancing his career.

Our Kokoda Track Porters carry across the Kokoda Trail less than the specified weight recommended by the Kokoda Track authority and less than the International Porters code. Our Kokoda Trail Porters carry between 12 -20kgs.The maximum weight our Kokoda Spirit Porters carry on day one of their Kokoda Trail trek is 20kgs. Our Kokoda Trail Porters weight is re distributed each day ensuring their pack weights are reduced by a minimum of 2.5 kgs each day.

The Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) approved weight for porters/carriers is 22.5kg.

We pay for our Kokoda Trail Porter flights/transport to and from the Kokoda track or we pay them a walk back wage plus supply them food or food money for the walk.

We supply camping equipment, sleeping mat and sleeping bag and uniform for our staff on the Kokoda Trail.

Our porters and guides do not walk the Kokoda Trail at night as this is an unacceptable risk to our employees and trekkers.

We Will Tailor your Kokoda Trail Treks to Suit You

We can organise Kokoda Track tours and Kokoda Trail treks for private individuals, groups, sporting clubs, schools, corporate organisation, defence force operations and more. We can even personally tailor your Kokoda Trail trek to meet your needs and requirements including options for:

Kokoda Trail Trek Leaders (PNG Trek Masters or Australian Led groups)
Dates – Kokoda Trail trekking season runs from March to November
Direction – beginning or ending in Kokoda
Number of Kokoda Trail trekking days
Community projects

All of our Kokoda Trail Tour packages and itineraries are sensible and achievable

We Have Experienced Trek Leaders for your Kokoda Trail Tour

We’ve been operating Kokoda Trail Tours since 2004 and we’ve taken thousands of happy Kokoda Trail trekkers safely across the Kokoda Track from start to finish. Over the years we’ve built an army of highly trained and knowledgeable Australian and Papua New Guinean leaders and guides who will make sure you have the time of your life on the Kokoda Track.

We can give you options to the style of Australian Guide you would prefer with an incredibly diverse outlook and experience with life.

Our Kokoda Track Australian Guides range from Military men that have served in Afghanistan, Vietnam, Timor and Somalia.

Our other Kokoda Trail Australian guides are specialist Teachers, Business and Community leaders, Fitness and Health coaches that love to share their knowledge of the history and culture of the Kokoda Track.

Our Kokoda Trail Trek Masters and Kokoda Track Guides are professional, friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about the Kokoda track with an exceptional knowledge of the Kokoda Trail history. They live and breathe the Kokoda Trail! All our senior staff are First Aid or Wilderness First Aid trained for the Kokoda Trail.

We'll Keep You Safe On The Kokoda Trail

Your safety is our highest priority on the Kokoda Trail. We’ve developed and adhere to an extensive risk and safety management procedure for all of our Kokoda Track adventures. We have contingency plans in place and 24 hours back up, with satellite phones. We have a First Aid trained Medic/Guide and first aid kits carried on every Kokoda Trail tour.

We will provide you with a comprehensive medical form that must be completed by your Doctor before you participate in the Kokoda Trail tour to make sure that you are in peak condition for the Kokoda Trail.

We also carry $20 million in Public Liability Insurance.

We'll Feed You Really Well on your Kokoda Trail Tour

Your Kokoda Trail trek will be physically tough, so we know how important it is to have the right food to keep your strength up. We have hearty food on our Kokoda Trail tours and plenty of it – freshly prepared pastas, stews, rice, potato and vegetable dishes all enhanced with local fresh garden ingredients (not hydrated packages) by our camp chefs! Our Kokoda Trail meals are designed to ensure you receive plenty of carbohydrates and protein to fuel your body.

Prepare yourself for your Kokoda Track tour to be well feed with great food, including treats of pastries, pizzas and even donuts! We cater, for Vegetarians, Vegans and Gluten free.

You'll Love Our Kokoda Trail Porters...and How We Look After Them

Our business is registered in Australia as Kokoda Spirit Pty Ltd and we are registered with the PNG Internal Revenue Commission in PNG as Kokoda Spirit PNG Limited.

We operate within the laws and requirements of both countries and pay our tax in both Australia and PNG.

Our PNG employees are registered with the PNG Internal Revenue Commission for income tax.

This ensures they are covered for tax and superannuation benefits.

We do not subcontract out our Kokoda Trail logistics in PNG to third party organisations.

We are proud to be an Australian and PNG registered and based Kokoda Trail company that employs locals and generates real benefits for PNG along the Kokoda Trail.

Our locally based Kokoda Trail PNG Guides were born or raised along the Kokoda Track corridor or Northern Beaches areas and are all qualified, trained and English speaking.

Naturally they have an intimate knowledge of the Kokoda Track and can show our Kokoda Trail trekkers things that you wouldn’t otherwise discover.

We are proud to employ Kokoda Trail locals and provide income, training and a career to the local people of the Kokoda Trail.

Our Kokoda Trail PNG Guides are professionally trained in first aid, food preparation, river crossings, risk management and trekker safety.

Our Kokoda Trail PNG Guides and Senior PNG Staff all go through a rigorous training process, which includes Kokoda track first aid at the start of every Kokoda Trail trekking season.

A fully qualified Paramedic Trainer provides this training.

Our Kokoda Trail Porters and Carriers are also briefed and resourced with knowledge and equipment to allow them to work in a healthy environment.

We provide our Kokoda Trail group porter medical kits
We pay Kokoda Trail camp site fees for each of our Kokoda Spirit porters
Each Kokoda Trail trek has a trained first aid porter who carries a porter medical kit
Each Kokoda Trail trek has a professionally trained rope and river-crossing specialist.
Each Kokoda Track trek has trained cooks and camp staff that supply, prepare and cook our Porters hearty and healthy meals.
We pay our Kokoda Trail Trek Guides and Porters well above the industry average and well above the recommended amount specified by the Kokoda Track Authority.
Our Kokoda Spirit Porters and Guides are on an upwards sliding pay scale from General Porter through too Senior Trek Master. We promote from within giving each porter the possibility of advancing his career along the Kokoda Trail.
Our Kokoda Trail Porters carry less than the specified weight recommended by the Kokoda Track authority and less than the International Porters code. Our Kokoda Trail Porters carry between 12 -20kgs.The maximum weight our Kokoda Track Porters carry on day one of their trek is 20kgs. Our Kokoda Trail Porters weight is re distributed each day ensuring their pack weights are reduced by a minimum of 2.5 kgs each day.
The Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) approved weight for porters/carriers is 22.5kg.
We pay for our Kokoda Trail Porter flights/transport to and from the Kokoda track or we pay them a walk back wage plus supply them food or food money for the walk.
We supply camping equipment, sleeping mat and sleeping bag and uniform for our staff on the Kokoda Trail.
Our Kokoda Trail porters and guides do not walk at night as this is an unacceptable risk to our employees and trekkers.

We Support the Community along the Kokoda Trail

Kokoda Spirit believes passionately in responsible travel and promotes this through the development of sustainable eco-trekking along the Kokoda Track. This commitment will enable us to assist the local Koiari and Orokaiva people develop the skills and experience to gain employment and develop eco-tourism business across the Kokoda Track.

Kokoda Spirit is also committed to developing and implementing programs to assist the people across the Kokoda track.

We believe people who work for Kokoda Spirit should be treated fairly, paid a fair wage, are supplied with adequate trekking gear, have a safe work environment, have access to health and education programs and further career opportunities along the Kokoda Trail.

We also believe that we should also learn and respect the culture and the customs of the country we are visiting so that we do not offend local people along the Kokoda Trail.
We ensure that local Kokoda Trail people benefit economically from Kokoda Trail tours by employing them as porters, cooks, leaders and guides.

We also train our Kokoda Trail staff in hospitality, customer service, and first aid and assist them with both education and health.

Kokoda Spirit assists programs across the Kokoda track to help with the distribution of schoolbooks, home readers, gardening products and first aid kits.

Our Kokoda Trail Projects have included:

Village Reader
Village Garden
Green Fire
Lighting up the Kokoda Track (In association with the KTF)

Some of our community groups have included PNG Cricket, Kokoda Village Reader project, PNG Village Gardener project, National Breast Cancer Foundation (Kokoda Chicks), Breast Cancer Care WA, Blind Courage (Guide Dogs Australia), Heart Foundation, Coca Cola, Zing, Victorian RSL, VECCI, Credit Union Foundation Australia (CUFA), Autism Victoria, Aspergers Group, Mission Australia, Centre Stage Management, Qantas, 500 Club, EFM and Centacare Catholic Family Services,ANGLS (Aussie Nurses Giving Life), Cerebral Palsy Centre, Barrick Gold Corporation and Porgera mine. NRL Team Newcastle Knights

Kokoda Spirit also supports and sponsors the Sunshine Coast ‘Give Me 5 for Kids’ program.

We are also Sponsors and Supporters of Smiling for Smiddy which supports the Mater Foundation.

We are members of the 39th Battalion Association, 2/14th Battalion Association and the 2/16th Battalion Association.

Kokoda Spirit Staff Kokoda Trail, Guides, Porters & Carriers

Kokoda Spirit is the largest employee of PNG Guides, Carriers and Porters on the Kokoda Trail.

Our business is registered in Australia as Kokoda Spirit Pty Ltd and we are registered with the PNG Internal Revenue Commission in PNG as Kokoda Spirit PNG Limited.

We operate within the laws and requirements of both countries and pay our tax in both Australia and PNG.

Our PNG employees are registered with the PNG Internal Revenue Commission for income tax.

This ensures they are covered for tax and superannuation benefits.

We do not subcontract out our logistics in PNG to third party organisations for our Kokoda Trail tours.

We are proud to be an Australian and PNG registered and based company that employs locals and generates real benefits for PNG along the Kokoda Trail corridor.

Our locally based Kokoda Trail PNG Guides were born or raised along the Kokoda Track corridor or Northern Beaches areas and are all qualified, trained and English speaking.

Naturally they have an intimate knowledge of the Kokoda Track and can show our Kokoda Trail trekkers things that you wouldn’t otherwise discover.

We are proud to employ Kokoda Trail locals and provide income, training and a career to the local people of the Kokoda Trail.

Our Kokoda Trail PNG Guides are professionally trained in first aid, food preparation, river crossings, risk management and trekker safety.

Our Kokoda Trail PNG Guides and Senior PNG Staff all go through a rigorous Kokoda Track training process, which includes Kokoda Track first aid at the start of every Kokoda Trail trekking season.

A fully qualified Paramedic Trainer provides this training.

Our Kokoda Trail Porters and Carriers are also briefed and resourced with knowledge and equipment to allow them to work in a healthy environment.

We provide group porter medical kits
We pay camp site fees for each of our porters
Each Kokoda Trail trek has a trained first aid porter who carries a porter medical kit.
Each Kokoda Trail trek has a professionally trained rope and river-crossing specialist.
Each Kokoda Trail trek has trained cooks and camp staff that supply, prepare and cook our Porters hearty and healthy meals.
We pay our Kokoda Trail Trek Guides and Porters well above the industry average and well above the recommended amount specified by the Kokoda Track Authority.
Our Kokoda Trail Porters and Guides are on an upwards sliding pay scale from General Porter through too Senior Kokoda Trail Trek Master. We promote from within giving each porter the possibility of advancing his Kokoda Trail career.
Our Kokoda Trail Porters carry less than the specified weight recommended by the Kokoda Track authority and less than the International Porters code. Our Kokoda Trail Porters carry between 12 -20kgs.The maximum weight our Kokoda Track Porters carry on day one of their trek is 20kgs. Our Kokoda Spirit Porters weight is re distributed each day ensuring their pack weights are reduced by a minimum of 2.5 kgs each day.
The Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) approved weight for Kokoda Trail porters/carriers is 22.5kg.
We pay for our Kokoda Spirit Porter flights/transport to and from the Kokoda track or we pay them a walk back wage plus supply them food or food money for the walk.
We supply camping equipment, sleeping mat and sleeping bag and uniform for our staff on the Kokoda Track.
Our Kokoda Spirit porters and guides do not walk the Kokoda Trail at night as this is an unacceptable risk to our employees and trekkers.

© Kokoda Spirit Adventures 2021

Kokoda Spirit Staff, Guides, Porters and Carriers

Kokoda Spirit is the largest employee of PNG Guides, Carriers and Porters on the Kokoda Trail.

Our business is registered in Australia as Kokoda Spirit Pty Ltd and we are registered with the PNG Internal Revenue Commissionin PNG as Kokoda Spirit PNG Limited.

We operate within the laws and requirements of both countries and pay our tax in both Australia and PNG.

Our PNG employees are registered with the PNG Internal Revenue Commission for income tax.

This ensures they are covered for tax and superannuation benefits.

We do not sub contract out our logistics in PNG to third party organisations.

We are proud to be an Australian and PNG registered and based company that employs locals and generates real benefits for PNG.

Our locally based PNG Guideswere born or raised along the Kokoda Track corridor or Northern Beaches areas and are all qualified, trained and English speaking.

Naturally they have an intimate knowledge of the track and can show our trekkers things that you wouldn’t otherwise discover.

We are proud to employ locals and provide income, training and a career to the local people of the Kokoda Trail.

Our PNG Guides are professionally trained in first aid, food preparation, river crossings, risk management and trekker safety.

Our PNG Guides and Senior PNG Staff all go through a rigorous training process, which includes track first aid at the start of every trekking season.

A fully qualified Paramedic Trainer provides this training.

We also have access to our specialist Wilderness Nurse who can assist with porter health.

Our Porters and Carriers are also briefed and resourced with knowledge and equipment to allow them to work in a healthy environment.

We provide group porter medical kits

We pay camp site fees for each of our porters

We pay camp site fees for each of our portersEach trek has a trained first aid porter who carries a porter medical kit

Each trek has a professionally trained rope and river-crossing specialist.

Each trek has trained cooks and camp staff that supply, prepare and cook our Porters hearty and healthy meals.

We pay our Trek Guides and Porters well above the industry average and well above the recommended amount specified by the Kokoda Track Authority.

Our Porters and Guides are on an upwards sliding pay scale from General Porter through too Senior Trek Master. We promote from within giving each porter the possibility of advancing his career.

Our Porters carry less than the specified weight recommended by the Kokoda Track authority and less than the International Porters code. Our Porters carry between 12 -20kgs.The maximum weight our Porters carry on day one of their trek is 20kgs. Our Porters weight is re distributed each day ensuring their pack weights are reduced by a minimum of 2.5 kgs each day.

The Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) approved weight for porters/carriers is 22.5kg.

We pay for Porter flights/transport to and from the Kokoda track or we pay them a walk back wage plus supply them food or food money for the walk.

We supply camping equipment, sleeping mat and sleeping bag and uniform for our staff.

Our porters and guides do not walk at night as this is an unacceptable risk to our employees and trekkers.

Our Partners In Adventures

Kokoda Spirit has helped to organise and lead a host of Corporate groups, school groups, Defence groups, Charities, individual clients and celebrities across the Kokoda Track.

We have worked closely and trekked with Paralympian and Adventurer Michael Milton, Paralympian Kurt Fearnley (Crawling Kokoda), Paralympian, Author and Motivational, speaker Don Elgin.

Rugby League Legend, Paul “The Chief” Harragon, NRL Premiership winning players Mark Hughes, Billy Peden, Australian Rugby League representive players David Fairleigh, Kurt Gidley, Mat Gidley, Danny Buderus, Matty Johns, Russell Richardson, Steve Menzies and Brad Godden.

Manu Feidel from MKR, Kate Peck model and MTV presenter, Miss Universe Australia Laura Dundovic and Miss World Australia Erin Holland.

Our Foundation, Organisations And Charities Have Included:

National Breast Cancer Foundation (Kokoda Chicks)	Heart Foundation	Soldier On	Blind Courage (Guide Dogs Australia)
Smiling for Smiddy	Mission Australia	Indigenous Marathon Foundation	Autism Victoria
RSL Life Care	Mark Hughes Foundation	Kokoda for Koda	ANGLS (Aussie Nurses Giving Life)
Centacare	PTSD Association Canberra	Give Me Five For Kids	Bully Zero Foundation Australia
Cotton On	Coca-Cola	Qantas	CUFA (Credit Union Foundation Australia)
Barrack Gold Corporation	Wood and Grieve Engineers	Zing	Centre Stage Management
Cams Cause	Humpty Dumpty Foundation	Avner Pancreatic Cancer Foundation	Chocolate Box Training
Alzheimer’s Australia	Wish You Were Here Foundation	Rotarians Against Malaria	EFM Health Clubs
Blue Hope Police Foundation	Lyme Disease Foundation	MBA Business Consultants	360 Athlete
MTA Travel Agents	TAL	AEA Animal Emergency Australia	Wotton & Kearney

Our Leadership & Mentoring Groups Have Included.

Y Lead Youth Leadership Program	MASP Youth Leadership	Kokoda Challenge Youth Program	Jobs Australia Indigenous program
NSW Young Achievers Rugby League team	Camp Quality	Cams Cause	Soulful Concepts
Priority Advisory Group	The Growth Project

Our Defence and Para Military Force Groups Include.

Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA)	Victorian RSL	39th Battalion	Australia’s Federation Guard
HMAS Darwin	HMAS Coonawarra	48th Battalion	Australian Federal Police
Queensland Police Service	RAAF Townsville	Army Logistic Training Centre	Army Logistic Training Centre
HMAS Newcastle	Australian Border Protection	Royal Australian Navy Recruit School HMAS Cerberus	HMAS Hobart

Our School Groups Have Included;

Haileybury College	Newcastle Grammar	Berne School	Nhulunbuy High School
Rostrevor College	St Ignatius Riverview College	Hale School	Yarrawonga Secondary College
Mackillop College	Sunshine Coast Grammar	Victorian College of Deaf	Knox Grammar
Ravenswood School for Girls	St Luke’s Anglican Bundaberg	St Hilda’s College (Melbourne Uni)	MASP
Ela Murray International School Port Moresby	Mirboo North Secondary College	Chancellor Park State College	Murray High School
Surf Coast High School Torquay	Yarrawonga College	Brighton Grammar	Lindisfarne School
St Columba Anglican School	Mount Clear Cottage

Media

Kokoda Spirit has also been privileged enough to be the chosen trekking company by the producers of “Kokoda”the movieand has appeared on Channel Seven’s Sunday Night Program and Channel Seven’s Today Tonight program.

Journalist and television presenter, Simon Bouda, Channel 9, chose Kokoda Spirit to assist with live coverage of 2017 ANZAC Day ceremony at Isurava Memorial.

We have also had an ABC Foreign Correspondent trek with us and have had articles published in The Australian, Sydney Morning Herald Age, Courier Mail, Japan Times newspapers and Air Niugini In-flight Magazine.

You can also find a range of testimonials on our website HERE.

Our Australian & PNG Team

Kokoda Spirit has offices in both Queensland and Port Moresby. This allows us to provide you with local contacts in Australia, while our strategically based Port Moresby office provides all the advantages of local knowledge and local infrastructure. This support network ensures your trekking adventure is enjoyable and trouble free.

Kokoda Spirit is Australia and PNG’s most respected and professional company, specialising in trekking Kokoda. We have been operating in PNG since 2004 and we have escorted over 8500 trekkers and more than 55 expeditions a year safely across Kokoda.

Our Kokoda Track Australian Team

Our Australian office and administration operation is based in Queensland.

Our online store and merchandise specialist, Kate Schumacher, is dedicated to all that is Kokoda Track merchandise, Trekking Gear and more.

Our Australian team do all the behind the scenes work in organising logistics, paperwork and facilitating all the necessary requirements to ensure a safe and successful trek.

They have a wealth of experience in management, finance, administration and love to be involved in our trekkers’ adventures.

Our team are enthusiastic and passionate about your trekking and adventure needs.

Our Kokoda Track PNG Team

Noel Namuri, and his local PNG team ensure all our logistics and organisational plans run smoothly in PNG and on the track. They have warm and friendly personalities, great knowledge and passion for PNG and the Kokoda Trail and will ensure your stay in PNG is enjoyable.

Noel commenced his career with Kokoda Spirit in 2006 as a Porter and has advanced through as a Personal Porter, Cook, Trek Leader, Trek Master, Senior Trek Master to now being the PNG Operations Manager.

Our PNG team have years of experience in administration and manage the office with enthusiasm. They are also dedicated to ensuring our trekkers are well looked after and they also oversees the welfare of our Guides and Porters.

Our Australian Guides

We can give you options to the style of Australian Guide you would prefer with an incredibly diverse outlook and experience with life.

Our Australian Guides range from Military men that have served in Afghanistan, Vietnam, Timor and Somalia.

Our other Australian guides are specialist Teachers, Business and Community Leaders, Fitness and Health Coaches that love to share their knowledge of the history and culture of the Kokoda Track.

Our Australian Guides are very experienced with numerous Kokoda crossings and our Managing Director Wayne Wetherall has trekked Kokoda in excess of 85 times and has led and facilitated more than 100 expeditions including Kokoda, Borneo, Nepal and Kilimanjaro.

Kokoda Spirit supports and large range of Charities and Foundations with raising funds and awareness for their causes. This assistance ranges from direct contributions, discounted treks, free of Charge treks and multimedia promotions of the Charity.

Our Porters carry between 12 -20kgs. The maximum weight our Porters carry on their trek is 20kgs

Wayne Wetherall

Hello, I am Wayne Wetherall and I am the founder and owner of Kokoda Spirit.
I started in the adventure business in 2004 to follow my passion in seeing others achieve, inspire and challenge themselves. So far …we have seen over 8900 trekkers successfully cross the track!

John Titmus

I am an active member of Alexandra Headland Surf Club and a Masters Surfboat rower.
I have had two Great Uncles that served in PNG during WW2.
I first trekked Kokoda in 2009 and became inspired by the story of Kokoda.

Luke Ingold

The challenge of the Kokoda track drew me here in 2012, and it was on this trip were I fell in love with the rich history and the people along the track.
I am passionate about Kokoda, our history, the people of the track and their rich culture and heritage.
The opportunity to take those seeking adventure on a bucket list trip and share the history and also their stories along the way in itself is an uplifting experience for me personally.

Cam McNeil

With over 25 years of experience as a senior investigator and intelligence analyst with the Queensland Police Service, Cam has extensive experience in team leadership and risk management.

As the grandson of an original ANZAC and the nephew of a 2/22nd Battalion Veteran who fought with Lark Force

Amy Cherry

My first Kokoda Spirit trek was an almost spiritual, life changing experience that opened my eyes to the inspiring events that occurred in 1942.
As a primary school teacher, the opportunity to guide groups has sparked my enthusiasm and desire to better educate young Australians about the commitment made by those who defended our country, and to honour the courageous ones who gave their lives on the Kokoda trail.

Anthony Thompson

I initially completed the Kokoda track for charity in 2013 and it was such an incredible experience I always knew I would go back.

When the opportunity came up to guide groups of like-minded adventurers across the unique track, I jumped at the chance.

Greg Chamberlain

I served as an Infantryman in the Australian Regular Army for over 35 years including operational service in South Vietnam and Somalia finishing my career as a Warrant Officer Class 1 (W O 1).
Since my discharge in late 2004 I have worked in the Fitness Industry as a Personal Trainer and Group Exercise Instructor.

Craig Thomson

I served full time as an Infantryman in the New Zealand Army and the Australian Army for 23 years including operational service in East Timor and Afghanistan Warrant Officer 2 (W O 2) and am now a serving Army Reservist.
I became involved with the Kokoda Track through another veteran mate and was humbled by the location and the people while enjoying the opportunity to just let go of the concerns of modern lifestyle. With my military background and my passion for military history, I endeavour to bring the experiences that the WW2 Diggers faced to life through not just the stories but by providing the finer detail.

Chris Dyer

Chris Dyer is a firefighter from Melbourne and a co-founder of the charity Cam’s Cause.

The Charity was formed in honour of his best mate and fallen Commando Cameron Baird VC, MG, Australia’s 100th Victoria Cross recipient.
Cam’s Cause raises money to support Soldier welfare.

Both of Chris’ grandfathers fought in PNG during WW2 in airfield protection and also on the Kokoda Track.

Darren Savickas

I first completed the Kokoda Track in 2009 & was both humbled & inspired by the experience & the significance of the Kokoda campaign to Australia’s history. I regard the Kokoda Track as a great physical & mental challenge & as being uniquely Australian & love taking the journey with people who have committed themselves to completing it.

Brian Healey

Brian has a history of playing elite level tennis and coaching professional sports people. Brian is an active member coach at Umina Beach Surf Club, along with his wife and three children. Brian started his journey with Kokoda Spirit in 2008 and over the past seven years has led many successful treks. Brian has great respect for the history of our past servicemen.

Max Bernstone

To date to many treks to remember over the Owen Stanley’s with Kokoda Spirit, Starting in 2008 after 18yrs as a professional lifeguard. Took time away from the track to complete my paramedic qualifications and as a senior medical response trainer delivering a variety of programs to mine rescue teams etc, throughout Australia and PNG.

Peter Sergeant

Having a father in the Airforce in Darwin during WW2, an Uncle who fought in Milne Bay and other Pacific Theatres in WW2, and a Grandfather who fought in the Somme in WW1, I share the passion of the other Kokoda Spirit Guides to remember and acknowledge those who have placed themselves in harms way for our way of life.

Steve Mackie

When I am not on the track, I reside in Perth Western Australia with my wife of 32 years and 2 Daughters I have a Plastering business and a keen interest in Fishing and Persinal Fitness.
My Grandfather was a member of the 2/28th Battalion and served in North Africa, PNG and Borneo.

Bernie Victory

Bernie Victory first trekked Kokoda in 2004 and has returned pretty much every year since. In that time he has seen a steady change in Australia’s understanding of the history of the Track and in conditions on the Track itself.

Susan Blinkhoff

I grew up in Port Moresby, PNG – and have since always had a deep love and connection to the country. I did all of my schooling in Port Moresby, and used to ride my horses past Bomana War Cemetery as a kid, not really having much of an understanding or appreciation of what happened – as Kokoda wasn’t taught at schools.

Shane Moloney

In 2007, I was drawn to Kokoda and found the experience so uplifting; it was to change my life forever. I feel extremely privileged to be in a position where I can not only add value to peoples lives but often share a life changing experience, this is very humbling to me.

Our PNG Guides

NOEL NAMURA AND NATHAN SAUL ARE OUR TEAM LEADERS FOR OUR KOKODA TRACK OPERATIONS.

Noel Namuri, is our PNG Operations Manager and is ably assisted by Nathan Saul as our Senior Kokoda Track Trek Master. Noel and Nathan ensure all our logistics and organisational plans run smoothly. They both are very experienced have warm and friendly personalities and will ensure your stay in PNG and your trek across Kokoda is a fantastic experience.

Both Noel and Nathan have completed more than 100 Kokoda Track treks each and are from the Kokoda Track area.

Meleni Dimuda (Mr Bugs) is our Head Cook and ensures all of our Kitchen teams that trek the Kokoda Track are trained to a high standard and are experts at our Kokoda Track menus.

Mr Bugs is assisted with the menus and track food preparation by Tony Able.

Our Porters

Our gratitude and thanks to our wonderful Kokoda Spirit PNG Guides and Porters.
You honour the service and sacrifice of your forefathers with great pride and courage.

My Brothers & Mates

Rest In Peace My Friend

Always In Voice

Brothers In Arms

Always There

There For Our Diggers..Always

Terms & Conditions

Booking Terms & Conditions

Pricing

Prices effective 1 April 2020.
The price quoted on trekker’s Booking Confirmation letter is held firm for 14 days from the date of the letter. A booking made after this time is subject to any price charges.
In the case of a price rise for the event, airline, accommodation, government fees, currency fluctuations of more than 2% drop against the Australian dollar, personal porters or other services, we will attempt to inform trekkers by letter or email, but prices are subject to change without notice. Any price rise will only affect trekkers who have not already paid for their event and airline tickets in full.
All price rises are passed on, until payment has been received in full.

Booking

Your trek reservation is confirmed on receipt of a non-refundable deposit of $600 per person per trek. Your deposit must be received within 14 days of booking or the reservation will automatically be cancelled. Deposit is non-refundable.
The balance of payment is due 10 weeks prior to trek departure.
The trekker is deemed to have read, understood and agreed to these Booking Terms, by paying the deposit.
Payment in full is required at time of booking for any reservations made less than 10 weeks prior to departure from Australia.
Our price is a package price. If you wish to vary the package price then you are liable for any accommodation, flight, travel, food or other variations not agreed in writing with Kokoda Spirit. The trekker acknowledges that they are aware of the inclusions and exclusions specified in the Kokoda Spirit documentation for the package selected.
Before paying the deposit you:
- (a) acknowledge the hardships, difficulties and potential dangers of trekking across the Kokoda Track and you accept those conditions;
- (b) agree to undertake a full medical check up prior to undergoing any exercise or training program in preparation for trekking the Kokoda Track;
- (c) agrees to commit to and implement a suitable training and fitness program specific to requirements necessary for trekking the Kokoda Track. The trekker will take all reasonable avenues to obtain specific training advice regarding the fitness requirements to successfully complete trek across the Kokoda Track in PNG;
- (d) agree to ensure all pre-trek paper work including Doctor’s Clearance Letter, Assumption of Risk, Trekker Information and Travel Insurance is returned to Kokoda Spirit within the time frame requested by Kokoda Spirit in the pre-trek documentation requests sent to you;
- (e) understand and acknowledge the difference in inclusions, services, expectations and price between PNG National led treks and Australian guided treks. This understanding includes but is not limited to the difference in historical briefings, commemorative services, communication and track briefings. You understand that the trek you have booked (including date, direction, PNG National Led or Australian Led) is nominated on your Booking Confirmation Letter.
- (f). You acknowledge the Deposit is non-refundable.
- (g) You acknowledge you have reads and understood the Terms for booking

Price Inclusions & Exclusions

The trek price does not cover costs and expenses (including the return to your home) if you leave the event of your own volition, or due to illness/accident, or as a consequence of action by the government of PNG or Australia or any other country that your trip operates.
Kokoda Spirit will provide each trekker with a list of “what’s included” and “what’s not included” (inclusions and exclusions). It is the sole responsibility of the trekker to provide the items on the “what’s not included” list.
It is the trekker’s responsibility to pay for telephone calls, extra night’s accommodation, extra meals and personal items whilst in PNG.

Your Details

In order for us to confirm your travel arrangements, you must provide all requested details with the balance of the trip price. Necessary details vary by trip; they include but are not limited to full name as per passport, date of birth, nationality, passport number, passport issue and expiry date and any pre-existing medical conditions you have which may affect your ability to complete your travel arrangements. On some more demanding trips we also require you to complete and forward a Self-Assessment form. Failure to provide requested details may result in additional charges or non-refundable cancellation of your trip.

Accommodation

Our price is a package price, which includes pre and post event accommodation only. Accommodation is based on a twin share. Accommodation may be upgraded to a single room, subject to availability, in which case a single price room will be charged to the trekker.
If due to illness, finishing the Kokoda Trail earlier, or for any other reason you change your pre-booked accommodation dates whilst in PNG, you will be responsible for paying for the extra night (s).
Hotel management require that accommodation, other than the dates given to the Hotel by Kokoda Spirit, are to be paid for by the participant at the time of check-in. Kokoda Spirit provides accommodation the night before the event starts and the night the event finishes (only).
Any extra nights are the responsibility of the trekker, and the trekker must pay the Hotel upon check-in.
Hotel accommodation can be upgraded, but this must be organised by the trekker. Kokoda Spirit provides a package price, which includes the 2 night’s accommodation in total, being one nights’ accommodation pre-trek and one nights’ accommodation post-trek based on twin share.
Upon requesting trekkers’ accommodation, if the hotel is full, Kokoda Spirit will organise to the best of its ability for alternative accommodation arrangements. Trekkers will be notified of hotel changes.
Accommodation along the Kokoda Track can vary from campsite to campsite. There is no guarantee that guesthouse accommodation or grassed campsites will be available. Overnight accommodation is on a non-booking system and a first come first served basis. Campsites are allocated and controlled by the landowners along the Kokoda Track, not by Kokoda Spirit. Kokoda Spirit will make available to our clients the best accommodation available at the time.

Fitness & Doctor’s Clearance

Trekkers must have a high level of physical fitness and mobility and should be able to negotiate uneven surfaces, river crossings, and climb stairs.
All treks involve high levels of physical activity every day.
Kokoda Spirit will provide each participant with a letter to take to their Doctor to sign and return to the Kokoda Spirit office.
It is the trekker’s responsibility to consult their doctor for a Doctor’s clearance letter and vaccination requirements.
Trekkers must provide the Doctor’s clearance letter no later than 4 weeks before departure date. If the Doctor’s clearance letter is not provided to Kokoda Spirit 4 weeks before the departure date, Kokoda Spirit reserves the right to refuse a trekker participation in the event.No refund will be payable if trekker does not supply Doctors clearance letter.
Kokoda Spirit reserves the right to refuse participation to or to retire any trekker who is deemed to be unfit or unprepared to complete the journey.
By paying the deposit, you acknowledge that you:
- (a) understand the hardships, difficulties and potential dangers of trekking across the Kokoda Track and accept those conditions;
- (b) agree to undertake a full medical check up prior to undergoing any exercise or training program in preparation for trekking the Kokoda Track in PNG;
- (c) will commit to and implement a suitable training and fitness program specific to requirements necessary for the trekking the Kokoda Track in PNG. Trekkers must take all reasonable avenues to obtain specific training advice regarding the fitness requirements to successfully complete the trek across the Kokoda Track in PNG; and
- (d) will ensure all pre-trek paper work including Doctor’s Clearance Letter, Assumption of Risk, Trekker Information and Travel Insurance is returned to Kokoda Spirit within the time frame requested by Kokoda Spirit in the pre-trek documentation requests sent to a trekker.

Children

An adult must accompany children under the age of 18. Adult supervision is required at all times.
Adults accompanying a child will be responsible for any behaviour deemed not acceptable by Kokoda Spirit staff.
If a child requires a Medical/Emergency Evacuation an adult must accompany the child and stay with them at all times.
In the event of early departure from the trek (i.e. less than the days specified) with a child, an adult must accompany the child and stay with them at all times.

Damage

Kokoda Spirit accepts no responsibility for any damage or loss suffered by trekkers whilst on the Kokoda Trail, whilst at the hotel accommodation, or in the course of transfer, transportation etc.
Any trekker who has caused damage will be required to pay for damage in full.

Retiring From The Event / Early Departure

Retiring from the trek or early departure from the trek, including evacuation (i.e. less days than the event dates specified on participants Booking Confirmation letter) will incur additional cost of extra staff to return the participant back to Port Moresby safely, transportation, administration costs (including satellite phone calls, international and mobile phone calls) and all other expenses incurred in returning you back to Port Moresby.
Trekkers are not entitled to any refund on early departure from their nominated trekking dates for any reason.
Early departure from the trek will automatically forfeit post-trek accommodation. The trekker is responsible for organising accommodation and must pay the hotel directly for their stay. The trekker will be personally responsible for these extra costs.
If you require or request helicopter evacuation you will be liable for all costs associated with the procedure. Kokoda Spirit will invoice you for these extra costs. It is your responsibility to organise any payment claims through your travel insurance company.
If a trekker leaves the Track for any reason they are not able to rejoin the trek at a later date.

Passport

All trekkers need to have a current passport. Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months after your return date from PNG.

PNG Visa Notice

A Visa can be obtained on arrival into PNG. You can however apply for a Visa prior to travelling to PNG. Tourist Visa – 30 or 60 days from arrival date
The website is www.ICA.gov.pg then go to the ICA: Homepage and onto the e-visa portal at the top right-hand corner to start an application online. The visa grant notice can be issued within 24/48 hours should all requirements be correct and in order.
If you do not hold an Australian Passport, please contact the Papua New Guinea Consulate for their advice.
4. Up to date Visa information will be provided prior to your trek.

Helicopter Air Lift Out

In the event of an emergency whilst on the Kokoda Track, Kokoda Spirit staff will assess the situation and act accordingly.
If Kokoda Spirit considers helicopter evacuation is required for a participant, Kokoda Spirit will put emergency procedures in place. Your nominated next of kin may be contacted by either Kokoda Spirit or your travel insurance company.
The trekker understands and acknowledges that when requesting an emergency evacuation with the trekker’s travel insurance company, Kokoda Spirit are required to provide the travel insurance company with the trekker’s private details.
All costs relating to a “Medical/Emergency Evacuation” will be charged to the trekker (including and not limited to administration costs, phone calls, staff wages assisting in the evacuation etc).
If a child requires a Medical/Emergency Evacuation an adult must accompany the child and stay with them at all times.
Accommodation required due to an evacuation is the responsibility of the trekker, and must be paid directly to the hotel.

Trekking Gear

Kokoda Spirit will provide each trekker with a Trekking Gear List as a recommendation of what to take while trekking. This trekking gear list is only a recommendation.
The trekker is liable to pay for any excess baggage on any international or internal slight in PNG or Australia.

Hire Gear

Kokoda Spirit hires gear to their trekkers for the purpose of the Kokoda Track only.
Any loss or damage to such equipment will be at the trekker’s expense.
Any Kokoda Spirit equipment not returned at the end of the trek will be charged to the trekker at new replacement cost.

Travel & Health Insurance

It is mandatory for each trekker to have affected a suitable personal travel insurance policy prior to your departure from Australia. A participant will not be allowed to commence the event without adequate travel insurance.If a trek is cancelled by either party, then the trekker is required to lodge insurance claim with their insurance company.
We recommend that each trekker should take out travel insurance prior to paying deposit and trek in full.. If a trek is cancelled by either party, then the trekker is required to lodge insurance claim with their insurance company.
The policy must cover the unforeseen cancellation of your trip for any reason, the loss of personal items, the cost of emergency evacuation by air from any point along the Kokoda Trail to Port Moresby or Australia if necessary, and medical/hospital treatment within PNG and/or Australia.
Kokoda Spirit requires all details of your travel insurance no later than one month before departure. A copy of the insurers ‘Certificate of Currency’ must be provided to Kokoda Spirit which includes details of your full name, policy number, dates of travel, destinations, the travel insurance company’s 24-hour emergency phone number, etc.
All baggage and personal effects are at all times, and in all circumstances, at the risk of the trekker. Baggage insurance is strongly recommended.
Kokoda Spirit is not responsible for the loss or late arrival of any baggage.
Trekkers acknowledge that their trekking equipment, personal items, medical and other gear is essential for their trek across the Kokoda Track, and should pack in their cabin luggage any essential items such as boots, medications etc, essential to them (subject to aircraft rules and laws).
Trekkers acknowledge that they are responsible for any additional costs associated with joining the event at a later date due to their late arrival to the trek or late arrival of baggage.
We highly recommend you immediately take out personal travel insurance upon booking and paying for your trek.

Tour Variations

We may cancel or postpone a trip at any time prior to departure if, due to terrorism, natural disasters, political instability, travel bans, closure of borders or other external events it is not viable for us to operate the planned itinerary. If we cancel or postpone your trip, you can transfer amounts paid as travel credit to an alternate departure date within a designated time period. We are not responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking including but not limited to visas, vaccinations, travel insurance excess or non-refundable flights. Booking terms and cancellations are as per original booking.

In the event of any legal action against Kokoda Spirit the client agrees that such action will be determined under the terms of the laws of Queensland, Australia.
PNG has been referred to as “the land of the unexpected’. It is a developing nation and we cannot accept responsibility for accident, loss, injury, disappointment, and delay or irregularity in flight, accommodation, transportation and other services provided on your trip. While we endeavour to operate all trips as described we reserve the right to change the trip itinerary. Please refer to our website before departure for the most recent updates to your itinerary.
Before departure: If we make a major change, we will inform you as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before departure. The definition of a major change is deemed to be a change affecting at least one day in five of the itinerary. When a major change is made you may choose between accepting the change, obtaining a travel credit on the land portion of the trip only or accepting an alternative tour offered.
After departure: We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or events outside of our control. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries such as visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights.
- (a) a) Trek Masters and Australian guides nominated for treks can vary due to changing schedules, sickness, injury or other unforeseen circumstances. Kokoda Spirit will allocate the best available PNG Trek Master or Australian guide but cannot give any assurance that any particular guide will be on any trek.
- 5. If for any reason, including injury to the Australian guide during a trek, Kokoda Spirit is unable to provide an Australian guide for a booked Australian Led trek, or the Australian guide is unable to complete the trek, Kokoda Spirit may refund to trekkers on such trek the difference between the price of an Australian Led trek and a local PNG led trek in appropriate circumstances, but shall not otherwise be liable to trekkers affected by any change.
- 6. Our group trips are run by a group leader. The decision of the group leader is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the trip. If you fail to comply with a decision made by a group leader or interfere with the well-being or mobility of the group, the group leader may direct you to leave the trip immediately, with no right of refund. We may also elect not to carry you on any future trips booked. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited, and you also agree to travel in accordance with our responsible travel guidelines.

Trek Itinerary Variations

Kokoda Spirit reserves the right to vary the trek itinerary/schedule in the event of unforeseen circumstances. We may cancel a trip at any time prior to departure if, due to terrorism, natural disasters, political instability, travel bans, closure of borders or other external events it is not viable for us to operate the planned itinerary. If we cancel your trip, you can transfer amounts paid to an alternate departure date. We are not responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking including but not limited to visas, vaccinations, travel insurance excess or non-refundable flights.

Acceptance Of Risk

You acknowledge that the nature of the trip is adventurous, and participation involves a degree of personal risk. You will be visiting places where the political, cultural and geographical attributes present dangers and physical challenges greater than those present in our daily lives. We use information from government foreign departments and reports from our own contacts in assessing whether the itinerary should operate. However, it is also your own responsibility to acquaint yourself with all relevant travel information and the nature of your itinerary. You acknowledge that your decision to travel is made in light of consideration of this information and you accept that you are aware of the personal risks’ attendant upon such travel.

Limitation Of Liability

We contract with a network of companies, government agencies and individuals to assist in the running of our trips as agent for these third parties. We are not responsible for the acts and omissions of these third parties.
To the fullest extent permitted by law:- any liability for any loss, death, injury or damage which you may suffer (directly or indirectly) in connection with or arising out of your participation in a trip, or any breach of the Booking Conditions, is excluded;- you release us and our officers, employees, agents and representatives from any liability and expressly waive any claims you may have against us arising out of or in connection with your participation in a trip; and- any condition or warranty which would otherwise be implied by law into these Booking Conditions (Implied Warranty), is excluded.
To the extent an Implied Warranty cannot be excluded, our liability in respect of the Implied Warranty is limited to (in our absolute discretion): (i) the provision of a similar trip to an equivalent value; or (ii) a refund of the total amount received by us from you in connection with your booking.
Any claim by you is excluded to the extent that it is for indirect or consequential loss, loss of profits or economic loss, however it arises, or for indirect, special, punitive or exemplary damages.

Cancellations, Refunds, Notices & Charges

Cancellation of confirmed bookings must be in writing.
The following cancellation fees will be applied (per person) for cancelled treks paid in full or part:

(a) Cancellations more than 90 days prior to trek – $750 cancellation fee and full loss of deposit and porter and hire costs.

(b) Cancellations between 41 &90 days prior to trek – 60% of the event price, full loss of deposit and porter and hire costs.
(c) Cancellations less than 40 days prior to trek – 100% of the total event/package price

Deposit is non-refundable.
Deposit (full or part payments) cannot be transferred from one person to another person.
Transfer trek date (Kokoda Spirit may agree to a transfer, depending upon availability). If agreed, any replacement trek must be within the same trekking season (i.e. the trek cannot be transferred to the following year) and a transfer fee of $500 per person will apply. If a trek cannot be taken by the trekker within the same trekking season the above cancellation notices apply (trekking season is March to November in a calendar year),The original booking terms will apply.
Kokoda Spirit strongly recommends that your travel insurance policy include cover for cancellation charges in the event of cancellation due to illness or any other circumstances. There may be a delay in processing any refund due, as we await advice of cancellation charges by airlines, hotels and ground operators.
Trek may be cancelled for any reason by Kokoda Spirit including due to terrorism, natural disasters, war, Kokoda Track closure, political instability, Pandemics, Epidemics or other external events it is not viable for us to operate the planned itinerary. Cancelled trips will be offered travel credit or moved to alternative trek dates.

Price / Trek Variations

Trek prices are subject to change at any time due to currency fluctuations, or Australia/PNG airport tax departure variations and other charges.
Trekkers are responsible for any price rises due to charter plane cost increases,
accommodation increases or costs in porters or other related costs until your trek and airline tickets are paid for in full.
Trekkers will be notified of event price changes in writing.
A minimum of:
- 6 trekkers are required for a local PNG Led trek to proceed; 12 trekkers are required for an Australian Led trek to proceed;
- unless agreement for a lesser number has been negotiated with Kokoda Spirit, in writing

Group Sizes

For a local PNG led trek the maximum number of trekkers per group is 16 (this excludes Anzac Treks and excludes personal porters and Kokoda Spirit staff).
For an Australian led trek, the maximum number of trekkers per group is 20 (this excludes Anzac Treks, private treks and excludes personal porters and Kokoda Spirit staff).
The maximum number of trekkers may vary with private groups and is negotiable with Kokoda Spirit.
Maximum numbers may change for our Anzac Treks. This will be a management decision.
Kokoda Spirit reserves the right to have more than one trek leaving at the same time, on the same date and going in the same direction, on the same itinerary.

Personal Porter

If you wish to engage a personal porter, Kokoda Spirit must be informed no later than 6 weeks prior to your trek starting date.
Payment for a personal porter must be received by the Kokoda Spirit office no later than 6 weeks prior to departure date.
Australian or local PNG led treks:
– A personal porter is an extra cost on top of Kokoda Spirit trek price. The cost of a personal porter is $720 AUD, non-negotiable.
– If a trekker requires a personal porter once the trekker has arrived in PNG or at any stage throughout the trek, the trekker will be charged an extra 25% on top of the $720 quoted price, (i.e. $900.00) to be paid within 7 days of finishing your trek.
Anzac Treks- A personal porter is an extra cost, on top of Kokoda Spirit trek price.
– The cost of a personal porter is $750, non-negotiable.
– If a trekker requires a personal porter once the trekker has arrived in PNG, or at any stage throughout the trek, the trekker will be charged an extra 25% on top of the $750 quoted price (i.e. $937.50), to be paid within 7 days of finishing your trek.

Photos And Marketing

Consent to us using images of you taken during the trip for advertising and promotional purposes in any medium we choose. You grant us a perpetual, royalty-free, worldwide, irrevocable licence to use such images for publicity and promotional purposes.

Privacy Policy

Any personal information that we collect about you may be used for any purpose associated with the operation of a Trip or to send you marketing material in relation to our events and special offers. The information may be disclosed to our agents, service providers or other suppliers to enable us to operate the Trip. We will otherwise treat your details in accordance with our privacy policy (available for viewing on our Website).

Dispatch & Delivery Policy

We will endeavour to deliver products ordered and in stock
on line within 3 days, and delivered by Australia Post to the nominated address.
Our Tours will proceed as per our terms & conditions.

Our Privacy Policy

Thank you for visiting Kokoda Spirit.

We respect and protect the privacy of our users.

This privacy policy tells you how we collect and use information.

The term “Personal Information” in this privacy policy means any information from which your identity is apparent or can be reasonably ascertained. We do not collect Personal Information about you when you visit our web site.

You can visit our web site without telling us who you are or revealing other Personal Information.

Scope

The purpose of this web site is to provide you with trusted and relevant information.

Personal information

If you contact us we will collect the email address you nominate and any other identifying information you provide, such as a name or phone number.

Please do not give us other personal or sensitive information.

Other than circumstances such as unlawful activity or serious threats to health and safety, we do not share Personal Information with other personal, government, organisations or other companies.

How we deal with complaints and requests

You may request access to Personal Information about you that we hold and you may ask us to correct your Personal Information if you find that it is not accurate, up-to-date or complete. You may also make a complaint about our handling of your Personal Information. To protect your privacy and the privacy of others, we will need evidence of your identity before we can grant you access to information about you or change it.

You can contact us by email, or send your request or complaint to the postal address below.

How we protect your Personal Information

This web site is hosted in Australia in secure, accredited facilities. To help protect the privacy of data and personal information we collect and hold, we maintain physical, technical and administrative safeguards. We update and test our security technology on an ongoing basis.

We train our employees about the importance of confidentiality and maintaining the privacy and security of your information. Access to your Personal Information is restricted to employees who need it to provide benefits or services to you.

Website analytics

To improve your experience on our site, we may use ‘cookies’. Cookies are an industry standard and most major web sites use them. A cookie is a small text file that our site may place on your computer as a tool to remember your preferences. You may refuse the use of cookies by selecting the appropriate settings on your browser, however please note that if you do this you may not be able to use the full functionality of this website.

Our website may contain links to other websites. Please be aware that we are not responsible for the privacy practices of such other sites. When you go to other websites from here, we advise you to be aware and read their privacy policy.

Our website uses Google Analytics, a service which transmits website traffic data to Google servers in the United States. Google Analytics does not identify individual users or associate your IP address with any other data held by Google. We use reports provided by Google Analytics to help us understand website traffic and webpage usage.

By using this website, you consent to the processing of data about you by Google in the manner described in Google’s Privacy Policy- external site and for the purposes set out above. You can opt out of Google Analytics if you disable or refuse the cookie, disable JavaScript, or use the opt-out service provided by Google- external site.

Kokoda Spirit also uses interfaces with social media sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and others. If you choose to “like” or “share” information from this website through these services, you should review the privacy policy of that service. If you are a member of a social media site, the interfaces may allow the social media site to connect your visits to this site with other Personal Information

Our obligations

This online service is bound by the provisions of the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth)– external site, including the Australian Privacy Principles- external site.

Contact us

On 07 54452758

Alternatively, you can write to us at:

PO Box 7293, Sippy Downs,

Queensland 4556

Australia

Or email us at enquiries@kokodaspirit.com