In the first episode of the second series of Martin Clunes: Islands of the Pacific, airing on ITV1 on Monday 15 April, the actor and presenter explores Papua New Guinea, journeying from its capital, Port Moresby, to the remote Trobriand Islands.
Clunes begins his journey in Port Moresby, the closest neighbour to Australia. From there, he ventures to the Trobriand Islands, one of the most isolated and inaccessible areas of Papua New Guinea. These islands, unknown to the outside world until the early 20th century, have seen little tourism or outside influence.
Clunes is welcomed by the subsistence farmers of the Trobriand Islands, who put him to work filling their ceremonial house with yams. He also joins them in a game of cricket and experiences their way of life.
The presenter then heads to East New Britain, where he witnesses the impact of volcanic eruptions on the landscape and the resilience of the local community. He learns about the Megapode bird, which nests in the hot volcanic sand, and joins the Independence Day celebrations, which include a parade as part of the Frangipani Festival.
Before departing Papua New Guinea, Clunes visits the community of subsistence fishermen in Gilibwa, who are struggling against rising sea levels. He reflects on the resilience of the people of Papua New Guinea and the fragile nature of life on Pacific Islands.
Martin Clunes: Islands of the Pacific airs on ITV1 at 9.00 pm on Monday 15 April 2024.
