Area Code 6 – MP/Gulf/Tabubil/Kiunga

Overview of Papua New Guinea Area Code 6

Area code 6 is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) within the Papua New Guinea (PNG) national numbering plan, administered under the ITU-T E.164 standard. This code serves the Momase and Highlands regions, specifically covering the provinces of Morobe (including the city of Lae), Madang, and the highlands provinces of Eastern Highlands (Goroka), Simbu (Kundiawa), Western Highlands (Mount Hagen), Enga (Wabag), and Southern Highlands (Mendi). It also includes the remote resource towns of Tabubil and Kiunga in Western Province, which are served by this code due to their historical telecommunications infrastructure links.

The code is assigned to fixed-line PSTN services, though in recent years it has also been used for some fixed wireless and VoIP-based local services. The geographic coverage is extensive, spanning both densely populated urban centers and remote rural areas, reflecting the challenging terrain of PNG.

Dialing Formats and Usage

When calling a fixed-line number in the region from within Papua New Guinea, subscribers must dial the national significant number (NSN) which includes the trunk prefix 0, followed by the area code 6, and the subscriber number. For example, a local call to Lae would be dialed as 0 6 4 4 2 1 2 3 4 (where 44 is the local exchange code and 21234 is the subscriber line). From outside Papua New Guinea, callers must use the international prefix, followed by the country code 675, then the area code 6 without the leading trunk prefix, and the subscriber number. For instance, an international caller would dial +675 6 4 4 2 1 2 3 4.

It is important to note that the area code 6 is not an overlay code; it is the sole geographic NDC for the regions listed. However, due to the introduction of mobile services and number portability, some fixed-line numbers may have been migrated to mobile networks, but the geographic identity remains for routing purposes.

Caller Instructions

For local callers within PNG, always include the trunk prefix 0 when dialing a number in area code 6, even if you are calling from within the same area. For international callers, omit the trunk prefix and use the country code +675. Ensure you have the correct number of digits: the NSN for fixed lines in PNG is typically 8 digits (excluding the trunk prefix), which includes the area code and subscriber number. For example, 6 4 4 2 1 2 3 4 is a complete NSN.

When calling from a mobile phone within PNG, you may need to include the trunk prefix as well, depending on your carrier. Always verify the number with the recipient to avoid misdialing.