PNG Prepares for NRL Era with K200 Million Chiefs Players Village

Papua New Guinea’s drive to establish its presence in the National Rugby League continued with the start of construction on a K200 million residential complex for the PNG Chiefs.

The apartment village at Airways will serve as the permanent accommodation base for players, coaching staff and their families ahead of the franchise’s expected debut in the NRL in 2028.

Groundbreaking ceremony today marks the start of the construction of the Chiefs village in Port Moresby (Image: Mol Mube)

The C9 Apartment Residences project was officially launched during a groundbreaking ceremony attended by government officials and key partners involved in the development.

The Constantino Group of Companies will construct the facility, which will include 80 apartment units built to international living standards.

Sixty-seven of the units will be allocated specifically for the PNG Chiefs, providing housing for players relocating to the capital.

Chiefs Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson said the residential project would help create a strong sense of belonging for the team.

“The village will offer safe, secure, and family-centered accommodation,” Ms McPherson said.

“It builds around the values that matter most outside of football, which is community, stability, and belonging. We want our team to feel that.”

The fully furnished apartments will range from one to three bedrooms and are expected to be ready by November 2027.

Sports Minister Kinoka Feo said the development forms part of broader preparations across the city as Papua New Guinea prepares to host international attention linked to the NRL.

“Important work is already being undertaken across the city by NCD Governor Powes Parkop and Moresby South MP Justin Tkachenko alongside many other partners,” Mr Feo said.

“Today’s groundbreaking represents only the beginning. In the months ahead, we will see further investments in facilities, infrastructure, and programs.”