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Location
Deutsch Neu Guinea (German New Guinea) was a German colony established in 1884 and encompassed New Britain, New Ireland, Bougainville and the north coast of eastern New Guinea. Also spelled Deutsch-Neuguinea. Administered by the German Governor General based at Rabaul. Developed as an economic resource with coconut palm plantations harvesting copra plus Catholics and Lutheran missionaries. German patrol officers (kiap) with natives served as police.
World War I
In early September 1914 at the start of World War I the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force (AN&MEF) arrived off East New Britain and landed at Bitapaka (Bita Paka) and after a brief battle gained control of the German colony. Afterwards, administered by Australia. Prewar and during the Pacific War part of the Territory of New Guinea.
Today
The areas of former Deutsch Neu Guinea are part of present day Papua New Guinea (PNG).
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Last Updated
November 22, 2025
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