By GABRIEL KATUHO
THE groundbreaking ceremony for the PNG Chiefs Village took place at the Airways Hotel in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, unveiling a K200 million development. This project will involve the construction of 67 residential units, including one, two, and three-bedroom fully furnished apartments.
The facility will house the PNG Chiefs players, their families, and club staff as they relocate and settle in Port Moresby ahead of the team’s entry into the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028. Construction is expected to be completed by November 2027.
The development, being delivered by the Constantinou Group of Companies, will provide modern residential accommodations designed to support the team and aid in their preparations for the NRL competition.
PNG Chiefs Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson expressed her appreciation for the partnership with the Constantinou Group and Air Ways, who will serve as the official village for the PNG Chiefs players, families, and management officials.
McPherson recognized the Constantinou Group as one of the most respected family-owned companies in Papua New Guinea, established in the 1930s. She highlighted their legacy in contributing to the country’s development and stated that the partnership between the PNG Chiefs and the Constantinou Group would support long-term nation-building goals.
The 67 fully furnished apartments will include one, two, and three-bedroom units. The village will offer secure, family-centered accommodation in close proximity to Jackson International Airport. The families of the players will also have access to various Air Ways Hotel facilities, including a gym, pools, barber, cafe, and more. Additionally, they will enjoy access to Loloata Resort, a world-class facility.
McPherson thanked the Constantinou Group and Air Ways Hotel for their commitment to delivering this vital facility. Mr. George Constantinou of the Constantinou Group also expressed his gratitude to the PNG Chiefs CEO and pledged to complete the project on time.
“The residences will form the next phase of Air Ways’ expansion and the Constantinou Group’s portfolio,” he said. “They will consist of 80 units, including one, two, and three-bedroom apartments built to international standards. Of these, 67 units will be designated for the PNG Chiefs players, management, and their families.”
Minister for Sports and Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology, Kinoka Feo, acknowledged the work of the PNG Chiefs CEO, Lorna McPherson, and the development partners, Air Ways Hotel and the Constantinou Group, for their collaboration in ensuring the success of the groundbreaking ceremony.
Feo stated that this development is part of broader preparations in Port Moresby for the PNG Chiefs’ entry into the NRL in 2028. He also noted that the ceremony marks the beginning of many future investments and developments for the city.
Feo expressed gratitude on behalf of the Marape-Rosso government to the Australian government for its financial support and to NRL officials, particularly Chairman Peter V’landys and CEO Andrew Abdo, for their ongoing support as PNG prepares to enter the NRL in 2028.