Museum
Today and Tomorrow
A museum for all
The South Pacific World War II Museum is a non-profit institution dedicated to preserving the memory of those who served during World War II, while creating lasting benefits for the people of Vanuatu — now and into the future.
At its heart is a simple but powerful idea: to build a world-class museum and educational complex on Espiritu Santo — a place that will inform, exhibit, preserve and educate, while offering meaningful experiences for visitors from around the world.
But this is not a project waiting to begin.
Making progress
In 2017, the Museum opened what has become known as its “mini museum” in Luganville.
Since then, it has grown into a highly successful and much-loved attraction, welcoming visitors from across the globe and establishing itself as an important part of Santo’s tourism landscape.
The museum has already expanded once to double its size, and will soon expand again with the addition of a dedicated library and research centre — further strengthening its role as a place of learning and discovery. (Link to new facilities page)
This existing museum will continue to serve as the Museum’s home as the larger vision takes shape.
A Vision Growing in Stages
The long-term goal remains clear: the development of a world-class museum complex that reflects the true scale of Santo’s role in World War II.
This will not happen all at once. The project will be delivered in carefully planned stages, allowing the Museum to grow sustainably while continuing to serve the community and its visitors.
Further details on the staged development of the Museum can be found here. (Link to development page)
A Clear Goal
Under the terms of the government lease, construction must begin within five years and be completed within ten. From the day the new Museum opens its doors, it will offer a compelling snapshot of wartime life in Vanuatu — then known as the New Hebrides — ensuring that future generations understand the scale and significance of what took place here.
At the same time, the Museum will honour and commemorate those who served and sacrificed, preserving their stories with care and respect.
Through its collections and programs, the Museum aims to educate, inspire and connect people of all ages — locally, nationally and internationally.
Our Key Objectives
Preserve
To safeguard artefacts and historical material to the highest professional standards, ensuring Santo’s wartime history is protected for future generations.
Exhibit
To create rich, carefully curated exhibition spaces that bring the diversity and significance of the Museum’s collection to life.
Educate
To deliver engaging educational programs that deepen understanding of the South Pacific’s role in World War II and inspire ongoing curiosity and learning.
The Museum as a Hub
The Museum will serve as the starting point for discovering Santo’s World War II history. From short walks through former base areas to visits to bomber sites, wreck dives, jungle treks and aircraft recovery locations, the Museum will connect visitors with experiences across the island. Whether exploring on foot, by vehicle or beneath the water, it will be the first place to begin.
Unearth History
For those drawn to discovery, the island still holds many secrets. Lost aircraft, hidden in dense jungle for decades, continue to be found. The Museum will help guide and support these journeys of exploration and rediscovery.
Rediscover the Past
For others, the experience lies in reaching the places where history unfolded — trekking to crash sites, walking the remnants of wartime infrastructure, and seeing firsthand the scale of what once existed here.
The Museum will help make those experiences possible.
Be part of what comes next
The South Pacific World War II Museum is growing. From our beginnings in Luganville to the development of a new museum complex, this is just the start of a much bigger story.
Stay connected and follow our progress as we bring Santo’s wartime history to life in new ways.