Fiji is embarking on a transformative journey to reshape Vanua Levu into a model of sustainable tourism through the country’s first Integrated Tourism Master Plan. Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, announced this ambitious initiative, which is set to unfold over a 25-year blueprint designed to ensure environmental protection, community engagement, and long-term economic opportunities in the region.
The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has appointed a consortium led by HIDRIA-IOS, comprised of Spain’s HIDRIA Ciencia Ambiente y Desarrollo and the US-based IOS Partners, with EcoConsult Pacific as a sub-consultant. Together, they will blend international expertise with local insights to ensure the master plan is climate-smart, inclusive, and in harmony with Vanua Levu’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Gavoka emphasized that the initiative goes beyond increasing tourist numbers; it is about supporting people, culture, and resilience. As consultations with communities across Vanua Levu and Taveuni commence, the master plan aims to create a robust framework that enhances access, diversifies visitor experiences, and fosters sustainable, community-based tourism. Notably, a focus on empowering women entrepreneurs and supporting local tourism organizations will be a pillar of the plan.
Structured into eight phases over 16 months, the consultancy will cover data collection, growth forecasts, urban planning, infrastructure enhancement, marketing strategies, institutional reforms, and training. The project is slated for completion by January 2027, with extensive stakeholder engagement ensuring that local priorities are at the forefront.
HIDRIA brings over two decades of experience in sustainable tourism and environmental planning, IOS Partners offers a rich background in infrastructure and economic planning, and EcoConsult Pacific ensures the plan will reflect the realities and aspirations of the Vanua Levu and Taveuni communities.
This initiative ties into previous efforts under the ‘Na Vualiku Project’, which has laid the groundwork for sustainable tourism growth in Fiji’s northern regions. With visible economic growth already noted in Labasa and Savusavu, optimism is high for the future of Vanua Levu. The project encapsulates a holistic approach to tourism, focusing on sustainable practices that not only boost economic gains but also enrich the lives of residents.
In sum, Fiji’s Integrated Tourism Master Plan for Vanua Levu represents a thoughtful endeavor to harness tourism as a vehicle for sustainable development, economic prosperity, and cultural preservation. It underscores the importance of collaboration among government bodies, civil society, and the private sector, ensuring a positive impact on Fiji’s northern region’s economic and social landscape.
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