Yes Obie, simply because Kokoda does not have a nav aid or GPS approach it is by simple definition, VFR. That is the same for the majority of smaller PNG airports that are the lifeblood of the country.
Any navaids (even the RWY lights at POM)in PNG last as long as it takes the locals to nick the wires/lights/batteries because they have a better use for those items than any balus.
It is unwise to try and relate an Australian pilots organised cosy operating environment to that of those flying in PNG. There is no similarity. Not unsafe, just different considerations and practices developed to fit in with the operating environment that is awesome and beautiful but terribly unforgiving.
tipsy