As Papua New Guinea marks another year of Independence, it is a time to celebrate the journey that has shaped the nation - its achievements, its identity and the progress made along the way.

But Independence is also an opportunity to look forward.

What will the next chapter of Papua New Guinea look like? What new opportunities will be created? And what are we building today that will help shape the country of tomorrow?

In the heart of Port Moresby, one part of that future is already taking shape.

Construction is underway on Stage 3 of Star Mountain Plaza, continuing the evolution of one of the capital’s major mixed-use precincts. The development is set to introduce new office, retail, commercial and entertainment spaces, building on an established destination for hospitality, business and lifestyle in Port Moresby.

It is another step forward in a development story that has been unfolding for more than a decade - and one that continues to reflect the ambitions of a modern Papua New Guinea.
 

Building on a Strong Foundation

Star Mountain Plaza was conceived as an integrated destination bringing together business, hospitality, lifestyle and culture in Port Moresby.

Building on progress already made, Star Mountain Plaza has continued to evolve through successive stages of development.

Its development has taken place progressively. Stage 1 delivered the Hilton Port Moresby and convention facilities in 2018, creating new accommodation, dining and event facilities in the capital. The development later expanded with Stage 2, delivering 180 Hilton-serviced apartments completed in 2024.

Today, Stage 3 builds on that foundation.

Client-provided project information outlines 11 floors of modern commercial spaces, 12,575 square metres of total net lettable area and 173 dedicated car parks, with spaces designed for retail, office and lifestyle businesses.

The plans also incorporate flexible floor plates for retail and office uses, 24/7 power, water and security, access to public transport and connections with surrounding residential and corporate areas.

These are more than additions to the Port Moresby skyline. They represent infrastructure designed around the way a growing capital works, connects and does business.
 

Creating a Destination for Work, Life and Culture

The vision for Stage 3 goes beyond commercial space.

Current plans bring together workplaces with retail, dining, entertainment and gathering spaces. Features outlined by Star Mountain Plaza include a central atrium, food and dining options, cinemas, Wi-Fi-enabled areas and a 450-seat National Performing Arts Centre.

Stage 3 brings together office, retail, dining and entertainment spaces within one connected mixed-use development.

The development is also being planned with sustainability considerations in mind, including passive cooling and cross-ventilation, recycled materials, low-VOC finishes and energy-efficient lighting and appliances.

Together, these elements support a broader ambition: creating a precinct where people can do more than simply arrive for work and leave at the end of the day. It is envisioned as a place where people can meet, conduct business, dine, experience entertainment and participate in the life of the city.

That approach is consistent with the wider identity of Star Mountain Plaza, bringing together hospitality, accommodation, business, dining and other experiences within a contemporary environment shaped by Papua New Guinea’s natural and cultural landscape.
 

Progress That Continues to Evolve

What makes Stage 3 particularly relevant during Independence is that it forms part of a much longer story of development.

When Star Mountain Plaza’s early stages were under construction, the project created employment for Papua New Guinean workers and opportunities for skills development. MRDC reported that more than 1,000 people were employed during the original construction, with the majority being local workers.

The precinct itself has continued to evolve since then. Existing facilities now support accommodation, conferences, dining, business and flexible working. Hubworks, for example, operates within Star Mountain Plaza and provides private offices, coworking and meeting facilities for businesses and professionals in Port Moresby.

Stage 3 therefore does not begin a new story from scratch. It builds on progress already made, extending the precinct’s role within Port Moresby and creating additional spaces for businesses, organisations, residents and visitors.

That sense of continuity matters.

Progress is rarely defined by a single building or moment. It is created through successive investments, new opportunities and the confidence to keep building for what comes next.
 

Looking Towards PNG’s Next Chapter

Independence reminds us that Papua New Guinea’s story is one of determination, identity and possibility.

As the country continues to develop, the next chapter will be shaped not only by the progress already achieved, but by the decisions and investments being made today.

Star Mountain Plaza’s Stage 3 is one tangible expression of that forward momentum. As construction continues, the precinct is expanding what it can offer Port Moresby - bringing together modern workplaces, commerce, entertainment, lifestyle and culture within one connected destination.

It is a development designed not simply for where the city is today, but for where it is heading.

As Papua New Guinea celebrates Independence and looks towards the years ahead, Stage 3 offers a visible reminder that progress is continuing to take shape.

The next chapter is being built - right here at home.

Star Mountain Plaza. Part of the MRDC Group.

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