Zaru Hotel Opening Signals New Era for Western Province Tourism

Tourism development in Solomon Islands’ Western Province has received a significant boost with the official opening of Phase One of the new Zaru Hotel in Gizo.

The hotel was officially opened by Minister for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Choylin Yim Douglas, who described the development as a milestone for the province and the country’s broader tourism growth strategy.

Minister Choylin Yim Douglas officially opening Zaru Hotel assisted by Wendy Kwan the daughter of the hotel’s owner, Mr Jacob Kwan.

The first phase of the project features 16 guest rooms, a fully equipped conference facility, and commercial rental spaces. The new infrastructure is expected to strengthen Gizo’s position within the Solomon Islands’ main tourism corridor by supporting leisure visitors, business travellers, and small-scale events.

The addition of conference facilities marks a notable shift for Western Province, which has traditionally been known for leisure tourism. The new space opens opportunities for meetings, workshops, and corporate gatherings, expanding the province’s appeal beyond its established dive and island experiences.

Speaking at the official launch, the Minister said Zaru Hotel will boost employment opportunities for local residents and stimulate increased spending in the local economy.

She commended hotel owner Mr David Kwan for his investment, saying the development demonstrates that high-quality tourism infrastructure is achievable in Solomon Islands and that local investors can lead transformative projects.

“As the industry continues its recovery and transition toward long-term growth, projects like Zaru Hotel reflect a shift from resilience to renewal,” she said.

VIPS and guests attending the official opening of Zaru Hotel.

“What stands before us today is not just another accommodation facility. Zaru Hotel represents a significant step forward in raising the standard of hospitality in the Solomon Islands.

“This type of development is exactly what we need to boost both our domestic and international tourism.

The Minister reaffirmed tourism as a priority sector for economic growth and diversification, calling for more quality rooms, improved standards, and stronger local investment in the industry.

Welcoming the development, Tourism Solomons Acting CEO Dagnal Dereveke said the hotel is a timely and strategic addition to Western Province’s accommodation portfolio.

“Zaru Hotel strengthens Gizo’s ability to meet growing demand from both international and domestic markets,” he said.

“As we continue targeted marketing in Australia, New Zealand and other key source markets, having quality room stock in destinations like Western Province is critical."

He added that the new development enhances the destination’s credibility and supports the national tourism brand by offering authentic experiences backed by reliable, comfortable, and affordable infrastructure.

The opening of Zaru Hotel comes at a time when Solomon Islands’ tourism sector is focusing on recovery, quality improvement, and sustainable long-term growth, positioning Western Province as an increasingly competitive destination for both leisure and business travel.

Media Release | Tourism Solomons