Mendi, Papua New Guinea, is the provincial capital of the Southern Highlands Province, and the capital of Mendi-Munihu District. The Lai River flows by the town. It is served by Mendi Airport. The town falls under Mendi Urban LLG.

Geography

The town is located in the Mendi River Valley, 1675 m above sea level, on the limestone hills from west to east. The Kikori River originates from the mountainous area where Mendi is located, and the Erave and Strickland rivers flow through the Giluwe Mountains, which contain the second highest peak of Papua New Guinea.

Climate

The Köppen-Geiger climate classification system classifies its climate as a subtropical highland climate (Cfb). Mendi features cool mornings, warm afternoons and heavy rainfall throughout the year.

Economy

Mendi's population is dense and the economy is relatively good. Crops grown in the town and its surrounding areas include vegetables, coffee, and tea; there is also a sawmill in the town. Mendi is mostly dependent on air transport, though there is road access through the nearby town of Mount Hagen.

2018 State of Emergency

In June 2018, a regional court in Mendi ruled against a losing candidate's challenge to a provincial election. Rioting followed, with looting and arson, including to a Link PNG plane at the regional airport. The central government of Papua New Guinea declared a state of emergency, suspended the Southern Highlands provincial government, and sent over 200 Defence Force troops to maintain order. The state of emergency lasted for 9 months.