Ni-Vanuatu Entrepreneur Nauka returns to boost local tourism with ‘Hop on, Hop off’ concept

September 30, 2024 9:46 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Kizzy Kalsakau.

Alfred Nauka, a successful Ni-Vanuatu entrepreneur, has returned to Vanuatu after operating his tourism business in New Caledonia for over two decades. His return was prompted by recent riots in New Caledonia, which severely impacted the tourism sector and made it difficult for businesses to operate normally.

Originally from Tanna, Nauka had been offering private tours in New Caledonia for 25 years. Upon his return to Vanuatu last month, he reintroduced his “Hop on, Hop off” concept, a tourism initiative he developed in Nouméa, New Caledonia, and is now applying in Port Vila. This concept is designed to support local bus drivers and owners by providing tourists, particularly those arriving on cruise ships, with an easy and flexible way to explore Port Vila. It allows visitors to hop on and off buses at key tourist locations, giving them the opportunity to experience the city even if they have limited time due to cruise schedules.

Nauka conducted a successful trial run of the service over the past two weeks, receiving positive feedback from tourists who appreciated the convenience and the chance to spend money at local businesses.

With more buses now involved, the “Hop on, Hop off” service has been implemented, and Nauka hopes it will continue to grow, benefiting both tourists and the local economy.

Mr. Nauka explained that the “Hop on, Hop off” concept aims to engage the large number of cruise tourists who tend to stay on board rather than disembark and explore local destinations.

He noted that on a typical cruise day, only a few hundred passengers disembark to visit various attractions, leaving many tourists behind. His goal is to encourage these passengers to step off the ship, experience the local culture, and support local businesses.

The service offers five key stops, beginning at Warwick Le Lagon, followed by visits to the Vanuatu National Museum, the waterfalls, downtown Port Vila for duty-free shopping and handicrafts, and ending at the Port Vila Market before returning passengers to their cruise ship.

Mr. Nauka is confident that the “Hop on, Hop off” concept will bring benefits to both tourists and local businesses in Vanuatu.

He believes this initiative provides a unique opportunity for tourists, especially those who typically stay on board during cruise stops, to explore the island, experience its culture, and contribute to the local economy.

Nauka is optimistic that this service will not only improve the tourist experience but also create new revenue streams for local bus drivers, shop owners, and other businesses that rely on tourism.

Nauka’s “Hop on, Hop off” service is positioned to be a game changer for the tourism landscape, offering a win-win for both tourists seeking authentic experiences and businesses eager for economic growth.