The Luluai Pokies and Club in Gerehu was officially opened to the general public on Thursday February 05th 2026, marking a significant milestone in Papua New Guinea’s locally led entertainment and gaming industry.
The opening reflects the company’s journey of resilience, innovation, and community-focused growth, culminating in the launch of a modern, integrated entertainment facility in one of Port Moresby’s most populated suburbs.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Delmae Haru, Assistant General Manager of Luluai Pokies and Club, reflected on the long and often challenging journey that led to the development of the Gerehu facility. She emphasized the organization’s enduring commitment to surrounding communities, including Gerehu, Rainbow, University, Ensisi, Morata, and Waigani.
“The journey to this day has not been easy,” Haru said. “This land was purchased in 2000 with the intention of development, but zoning challenges took us 23 years to resolve with the authorities. What felt like a setback became a step toward a greater blessing.”
During this prolonged process, the company redirected its vision and developed a property in Waigani, located along the corner of Tournament Crescent, now known as Dream Inn. The site evolved into a fully serviced luxury apartment complex offering two-bedroom apartments, complemented by a restaurant, bar, conference facilities, and gaming operations.
Recognizing the success of Dream Inn as an integrated business model, the company expanded the concept to Gordons, now operating as Luluai. Despite disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, Haru noted that the venture proved resilient and successful in the post-COVID period.
Encouraged by this success, and identifying Gerehu as a suburb with a large population but limited entertainment facilities, the company embarked on its most ambitious expansion to date. Through collaborative efforts by the team, construction began in 2023, and within 14 months, the project progressed from concept to reality.
Following the official groundbreaking, the team navigated regulatory processes and secured the required operational licenses. A soft launch on 20 November 2025 opened the restaurant and sports bar to the public, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response.
Haru highlighted that development did not occur in isolation. While construction progressed at Luluai Gerehu, the company simultaneously expanded its facilities at Dream Inn, introducing a new central kitchen serving all outlets, a modern conference facility, and a pool bar servicing the swimming pool area.
“These projects may look different, but they share the same purpose,” she said. “To create spaces that serve people, strengthen communities, and generate employment opportunities for our people.”
Haru also noted that the company is currently employing 350 local Papua New Guineans in the entertainment Industry, which is quite a handful.
Delivering the keynote address, Imelda Agon, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB), described the opening as a landmark moment for local ownership in an industry historically dominated by foreign operators.
“Being in this industry for over 25 years, I saw a time when nearly 100 percent of gaming businesses were foreign-owned,” Agon said. “Today, to see Papua New Guineans venturing into this space and successfully operating facilities like this is something worth celebrating.”
Agon emphasized that Luluai Gerehu represents more than a gaming venue, describing it as an integrated entertainment hub that combines hospitality, tourism, and recreation to serve families and the wider community.
“When we say entertainment, it must include our people,” she said. “It must be a place where families can wine and dine, relax after work, and enjoy a safe and inclusive environment.”
Employment creation and skills development were central themes of her remarks. Agon highlighted the transformative impact of such facilities on local residents, particularly those with limited formal education.
“These are real jobs,” she said. “People who once walked the streets now come into employment, learning how to dress professionally, serve customers, communicate confidently, and carry themselves with dignity.”
Drawing on her personal connection to the area, Agon spoke with pride about the visible changes in the Gerehu suburbs, noting improved lighting during the Christmas period and renewed optimism among residents.
“I was born and raised here,” she said. “To see a building like this gives a new outlook on how Gerehu will develop in the years ahead. Our people are excited.”
Agon acknowledged the risks and challenges faced by local entrepreneurs and urged Papua New Guineans to show courage in building businesses that drive national progress.
“It’s not easy to start a business in this country,” she said. “But real change takes someone from among us to take that first step.”
The ceremony concluded with congratulations to the project leadership and recognition of young local employees who now form part of the Luluai workforce.
Agon concluded that the opening of Luluai Pokies and Club at Gerehu stands as more than a commercial achievement. It represents a story of local ownership, perseverance, and community empowerment, a model of how integrated development can reshape neighbourhoods, create opportunity, and inspire confidence in Papua New Guinea’s homegrown enterprise.
