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Home  >  World  > Australia and South Pacific  > Papua New Guinea Overview Country Overview Papua New Guinea consists of over 600 islands and lies in the middle of the long chain of islands stretching from mainland South East Asia. It is situated in the South Pacific, 160km (100 miles) north of Australia. A line of active volcanoes stretches along the north coast of the mainland and continues on the island of New Britain. Port Moresby, the capital, is situated on the magnificent Fairfax Harbour. Its key attractions are the National Parliament and the Catholic Cathedral. Lae is Papua New Guinea's second city and an important commercial centre and seaport. The Botanical Gardens are among the best in the country. Around the Chambri Lakes many species of birds for which Papua New Guinea is famous are to be found, including egrets, pied herons and kingfishers. The Eastern Highlands have the longest history of contact with the West. Kainantu is reached from Lae through the Kassim Pass. It has a large cultural centre, selling traditional artefacts. Several hotels in Port Moresby have dancing in the evenings and some organise live entertainment. Copyright © 2003 Columbus Publishing Ltd. Terms and Conditions apply.