Kavieng is noted throughout the world for its ancient Malagan culture and the shark callers of Kontu. The unique culture of this area has crafted carvings of highly decorated masks that have been collectors' items since Kavieng first came in contact with Western cultures. In WWII the Japanese occupied New Ireland and much of this is still evident on land and beneath the sea. The waters around Kavieng are littered with wrecks! The scenery around Kavieng is stunning and contrasting; mountainous islands drop sharply into the sea; low lying coral islands are surrounded by beautiful beaches and fringing reefs. The straits and channels between these islands with their huge movements of water create some really exciting diving. As well as the famous pelagic encounters there is also to be found in the lagoons and mangroves the nurseries for a huge variety of marine life.