Cultural Episode - Tok Pisin on Kokoda Language as Respect

Cultural Episode - Tok Pisin on Kokoda Language as Respect

From Kokoda Track by Glenn Azar

February 9, 2026 · 15 min

About this episode

Glenn Azar explores the importance of Tok Pisin language in showing respect on the Kokoda Track.

Tok Pisin on Kokoda: Language as Respect Language is one of the simplest — and most powerful — ways to show respect on the Kokoda Track. In this first episode of the Cultural Series on The Kokoda Track Podcast , Glenn Azar explores  Tok Pisin , one of Papua New Guinea’s main languages, and explains why learning just a few basic phrases can completely change how trekkers are received along the Track. This episode goes beyond memorising words. It explains why Tok Pisin is not “broken English,” why effort matters more than perfect pronunciation, and how language signals humility, awareness, and respect in village environments. Drawing on years of experience on the Track and cultural insight gained through family connection, this episode sets the foundation for how trekkers should think about communication, behaviour, and respect on Kokoda. This is an essential listen for anyone preparing to walk the Track — and a reminder that Kokoda is not just a physical journey, but a human one. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: What Tok Pisin is and why it matters on Kokoda Essential greetings and phrases every trekker should know Why greetings and…

People in this episode

Host: Glenn Azar

Topics covered

  • Tok Pisin
  • Kokoda Track
  • language
  • cultural respect
  • communication

Keywords

  • Papua New Guinea
  • trekkers
  • greetings
  • cultural insight
  • humility

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Kokoda, the Kokoda Track, Tok Pisin

Books & works: Cultural Episode, The Kokoda Track Podcast

Places: Papua New Guinea’s, Kokoda

More episodes of Kokoda Track

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Kokoda Track podcast page.