The indigenous peoples of New Guinea, commonly called Papuans, are Melanesians (predominant and indigenous people of Melanesia). There is genetic evidence for two major historical lineages in New Guinea and neighboring islands.

PAPUAN TRIBE

Language

Members of the Tribe of Papua speak languages belonging to the many non-Austronesian language families found only in New Guinea and neighbouring islands, as well as Austronesian languages along parts of the coast and newly formed Creole languages such as Tok Pisin and Papuan Malay.

In linguistics and anthropology, the word "Papuan" is used in a broader context. In linguistics, the term "Papuan languages" is a cover word for the many families of non-Austronesian languages spoken in Melanesia, the Torres Strait islands and parts of Wallacea, which are not related to each other. "Papu" is also used in anthropology to describe the extremely diverse indigenous populations of Melanesia and Wallacea before the arrival of Austronesian speakers, as well as the dominant genetic traces of these populations in the current ethnic groups of these regions.

Culture

Within Papua New Guinea's interior, there are many distinct and exotic cultures and it is a land of traditional peoples living a subsistence lifestyle. People live and depend on subsistence farming in small villages. Women are responsible for daily chores such as gardening and childcare.

In Papua New Guinea, there is a wide variety of cultures, such as the vibrant Huli tribe in the southern highlands and the Hela province in Papua New Guinea. The Huli use coloured clay for typical body decoration. However, young men from the Sepik region suffer painful cuts on their backs.

Cultural performances and festivals in Papua New Guinea are a way for the proud people of the region to demonstrate their traditions and traditional values through dance and song. It is also a great opportunity for visitors to see Papua New Guinea's many diverse cultures come together in an abundance of colour and passion.