SINPF–O’Neill Group partnership powers ahead with King Solomon Hotel redevelopment

[Honiara 26/7/2026] The redevelopment of the King Solomon Hotel is progressing well, with the first phase of works now well advanced under the ownership of King Hotel and Resorts Limited (KHRL) — a partnership that pairs the financial strength of the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) with the investment and hotel operations expertise of its Papua New Guinea partner, the O’Neill Group.

Since KHRL acquired the hotel’s assets from the previous owner, Solomon Islands Resorts Limited, in February 2025, the new owners have kept the business trading, retained its people, and moved quickly into a major upgrade — a combined investment of SBD 100 million in a landmark national asset.

Senior management from major shareholder SINPF recently inspected the site, meeting the construction contractor’s site manager and receiving a first-hand briefing on progress.

The partnership is structured to draw on the best of both partners. Together, the purchase of the hotel and its upgrade represent a combined investment of SBD 100 million, with both investors contributing cash for their shares — SINPF holding 55%, keeping majority ownership of the hotel firmly in local hands, and the O’Neill Group 45%. SINPF brings local financial strength on behalf of its Solomon Islander members, while the O’Neill Group provides the investment and hotel operations expertise — including the experienced management team that has driven a seamless transfer from the former owner and the continuation of the business.

The benefits flow directly to the Solomon Islands. On taking up ownership, 70 staff were employed and all were retained; the hotel now boasts over 100 permanent staff to support increased guest numbers, alongside around 20 tradespeople engaged on the building site to date. As a fully compliant local operator, the hotel is a steady contributor to national revenue through the taxes and duties it pays — including full duties on its alcohol, on which it holds no import exemptions.

Instead, King Solomon Hotel is putting its weight behind local and Melanesian quality producers and small businesses. The hotel continues to champion home-grown enterprise — including the SICCI Market, hosted by Troppo every Sunday, where Solomon Islands SMEs showcase and sell their products.