Name Change for Solomon Islands’ Only National Park to Enhance Clarity and International Recognition

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism wishes to announce the official change in the designation of the nation’s only national park, which was originally declared in 2017 under the Parks Act 1954 to protect the historically significant Bloody Ridge WWII battlefield site near Henderson Airport on Guadalcanal.

The site was initially designated as the “Bloody Ridge National Peace Park”, a name intended to honor the memory of the fierce battles fought on its grounds and to promote peace and reconciliation. However, following valuable feedback from international tour operators, development partners, and the general public, the Ministry acknowledges that the term “Peace Park” has led to confusion and does not clearly reflect the site’s historical nature.

In the global context of protected area terminology, natural areas are typically designated as National Parks, while historically significant locations are more appropriately classified as National Historical Sites or National Historical Parks. The term “Peace Park,” while well-intentioned, is not commonly used in international heritage or tourism contexts and may obscure the site’s true significance as a major World War II battlefield and place of remembrance.

To address this and to enhance both clarity and international recognition, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism has officially changed the designation of the park to:

“Bloody Ridge National Historical Park (BRNHP)”.

This new name more accurately reflects the park’s purpose – to preserve and commemorate one of the most iconic World War II battlefields in the Pacific – and aligns with global naming conventions for heritage and historical sites.

As part of this rebranding initiative, the Ministry’s Bloody Ridge Project Team has also developed a new logo for the park. This logo will serve as the official brand identity for the Bloody Ridge National Historical Park and will be used across all promotional and communication materials moving forward. The new visual identity will help raise the park’s profile both locally and internationally, particularly within the war history tourism market.

The Bloody Ridge National Historical Park will continue to serve as a symbol of peace, remembrance, and historical reflection. The Ministry remains committed to the development and promotion of the park as a key national heritage site and major tourism attraction, contributing to cultural and environmental preservation, education, and economic growth.

We thank all stakeholders, partners, and members of the public who provided input on this important decision and look forward to your continued support in honouring and preserving our shared history.

Source: Ministry of Culture & Tourism