Honiara comes out in massive numbers: invade pavements & streets to welcome Pacific queens

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Honiara residents poured out to the streets in hordes today invading the pavements and, in some parts, the main-road— forcing the traffic to come to a grinding halt in certain stretches of the road as they welcomed the Pacific Queens during their Float Parade.

Regardless of the boiling temperatures, thousands armed with their phones lined the city’s main road, chanting, cheering and capturing the flamboyant float parading from the east to Townground in the western side of town.

When the float parade paced in the westerly direction it drew the young and old uniting in one big Pacific family as the Happy Isles embraced their guest queens from Polynesia, Micronesia and Melanesia. The outpouring of support in the capital didn’t disappoint as regional cultures were at their very best as showcased in the well decked and designed floats powered by island music, popular dances and stunning outfits.

As the festivity mood advanced to the destination at SMI, it was almost impossible to capture the float—as the dancing queens drew huge roar of response from the crowd and they moved onto the road.

In front of the Office of the Prime Minister, Clement Betea was impressed by what he saw as the Pacific united in the float parade and witnessed by a unified Honiara. But Betea’s support is all the way behind Solomon Islands very own queen Elsie Polosovai.

“I am rooting for Miss Solomon Islands,” he shouted as the crowd increased their volume in unison for the passing queens.

Along the route of the float, throngs of residents waved, some hoisting island flags.

Then the pinnacle came at the Townground where a packed SMI arena witnessed the arrival of the float parade with their queens. They were greeted by traditional dancers from Isabel before each taking turn on the stage to make short introduction—and engaging the crowd.

“At least I am here to see the queens because I don’t have the money to attend the crowning night,” said one female who waited since 10am at SMI.

Honiara’s embracing of the 2025 Miss Pacific Islands Pageant adds to its record some two years ago when it hosted the biggest and the best Pacific Games.

But as float parade ended in a rare hot-day in Honiara in February which was defined by rain, the focus now turns to Friendship Hall where the new Miss Pacific Islands will be crowned tomorrow (Saturday night).

news@sbmonline2025