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Treasury Islands
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The Treasury Islands, comprising Mono and Stirling islands, were the site of "Operation Goodtime" in October 1943, a crucial stepping stone in the Allied advance toward Bougainville. This operation was notable for being the first major amphibious assault of the war conducted primarily by New Zealand forces, with extensive support from the U.S. Navy. The assault on Mono Island was met with fierce but short-lived resistance from the Japanese garrison, while the uninhabited Stirling Island was rapidly transformed by U.S. Navy Seabees into a major airbase. This airfield played a vital role in providing fighter cover for the subsequent landings at Empress Augusta Bay. The Treasury Islands campaign showcased the effective integration of Commonwealth and American forces in the Pacific Theater. Today, the islands are prized for their pristine natural environment, yet they retain numerous artifacts of their wartime history, including overgrown runways and shoreline fortifications, serving as a reminder of their strategic importance in 1943.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Nearby: Mono (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 |
| Rain mm | 310 | 328 | 318 | 274 | 388 | 378 | 380 | 351 | 294 | 295 | 245 | 239 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Treasury Islands are a remote group south of Bougainville, reachable only by local boats. Visits are possible but there is no tourist infrastructure; access is self-organized.
Typical hours
As an uninhabited natural area, there are no opening hours. Day trips are possible in good weather; the crossing should be made during daylight.
Photography
Photography is allowed everywhere, but respect the pristine nature. The beaches and clear water offer convenient subjects for landscape shots.
Time needed
A day trip from Bougainville typically takes six to eight hours, including boat ride and exploration. Longer stays are not possible as there is no accommodation.
Combine with
The islands are best visited from Bougainville. Combine the trip with a visit to historical sites around Empress Augusta Bay.
Getting there
Access is by chartered boat from Bougainville island. The crossing takes one to two hours depending on weather. A local guide should be arranged in advance.
Insider tip
Bring enough food and water, as there are no supply options on the islands. For the boat trip, sunscreen and a waterproof bag for your camera are recommended.
Geography
Facts
- Operation Goodtime commenced on October 27, 1943.
- The landing force consisted of 3,400 New Zealanders and 1,900 Americans.
- The Stirling Island airfield was operational by early November 1943.
- Mono was the first island in the Solomon chain to be retaken by New Zealand forces.
- Approximately 200 Japanese soldiers were killed during the defense of the islands.
- The airfield on Stirling was a critical base for Allied strikes against the fortress at Rabaul.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Treasury Islands (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes the islands special?
Historical significance and nature.
Best time to visit?
May to October.
Can you dive?
Yes, excellent.
How to get there?
By boat.
Do you need a visa?
Yes, for the country.
Treasury Islands: where is it located?
Treasury Islands is located in Solomon Islands.
Treasury Islands: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Nov, Dec.
Treasury Islands: why is it worth visiting?
The Treasury Islands, comprising Mono and Stirling islands, were the site of "Operation Goodtime" in October 1943, a crucial stepping stone in the Allied advance toward Bougainville.
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