The traditional flag raising ceremony at Parliament house kick started celebrations as early as 5am. Residents flocked to Waigani in their best red, black and gold colors.
Early risers witnessed an air show as the highlight of the day. Military aircraft from PNG and Australia were involved including one of Air Niugini's 767 aircraft.
An Australian military jet graced the morning skies too prompting a loud cheer from the roadside crowd. The airshow started with a sole military aircraft exiting smoke in the national colors.
