Porters, Ethics and Responsibility on Kokoda

Porters, Ethics and Responsibility on Kokoda

From Kokoda Track by Glenn Azar

February 5, 2026 · 10 min

About this episode

Glenn Azar discusses the ethical responsibilities and the vital role of porters in Kokoda trekking.

Porters, Ethics, and Responsibility on Kokoda Porters are the backbone of every Kokoda trek — yet their role is often misunderstood or overlooked. In this episode of  The Kokoda Track Podcast , Glenn Azar explores the ethical responsibilities that come with trekking Kokoda and explains why porter welfare, respect, and partnership matter far more than convenience. Drawing on decades of on-Track experience, Glenn unpacks the power dynamics at play, the difference between ethical and exploitative systems, and the role trekkers themselves play in shaping the culture of Kokoda trekking. This episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to walk Kokoda with integrity. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: The real role porters play on the Kokoda Track Why ethical responsibility matters in trekking What good porter systems actually look like How trekkers contribute to respectful culture Why leadership is revealed under load Follow  The Kokoda Track Podcast  for future episodes covering Kokoda history, Papua New Guinea culture, and the realities of trekking the Track with respect and purpose. This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALS See…

People in this episode

Host: Glenn Azar

Topics covered

  • porters
  • ethics
  • responsibility
  • Kokoda trekking
  • welfare
  • culture

Keywords

  • Kokoda Track
  • trekking
  • ethical systems
  • power dynamics
  • leadership

Sponsors

ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALS

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Kokoda Track

Books & works: This Episode

Places: Kokoda, Kokoda, Papua New Guinea

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