DAY 1 - KOKODA to DENIKI

Tuesday 02 June

After plenty of planning a few nerves, the students & teachers finally landed at Port Moresby international airport yesterday and were met by Mick & Jules and transported back to the 5 star Airways Hotel. A few enjoyed a rest, while others had a swim and, in the evening, they gathered for a pre-trek briefing, dinner and off to bed.

They were up for breakfast at the hotel before heading back to the domestic airport for the 30-minute flight to Popondetta. Once they arrived, it was a short 20-minute drive into Popondetta where they were they picked up some supplies and a few snacks. Then it was a long dusty 4-hour journey to Kokoda from Popondetta travelling by private vehicle along the Japanese advance route from the coast via such historic sites as Wairopi, the Kumusi River, Awala, Oivi and Gorari.

The road wasn’t in great condition and after finally in arriving in Kokoda they inspected the Kokoda Plateau, museum and discussed more of the history of the Kokoda campaign and battles there.

With the late start to the day the group decided to stop the night at the village of Hoi and tackle the infamous Deniki hill tomorrow bright and early. They are now having dinner & getting ready for a huge day of trekking tomorrow. All are doing well.