The 1992 Air New Zealand Suva Hibiscus Carnival marked a remarkable achievement by raising an impressive $187,006.13. This milestone was featured in an article by The Fiji Times on August 24 that year. The event saw Setaitata Tamanikaiyaroi, crowned Miss National Bank of Fiji, secure the title of Miss Charity after collecting an astonishing $53,313 for the cause.
The carnival included a lively float parade on Saturday afternoon, drawing thousands of enthusiastic spectators to the streets of Suva. With temperatures rising into the 30s, contestants showcased their summer attire, and for the first time in several years, the carnival enjoyed favorable weather throughout the week.
The highlight of the festivities took place on Saturday night at Albert Park during the traditional crowning ceremony. In contrast to the previous year’s rain, a large crowd gathered for the event. Contestants in elegant evening gowns of colors including emerald green, purple, black, mauve, and peach left a lasting impression.
A significant moment of the evening occurred when Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka crowned Miss Reserve Bank of Fiji, Elisapeci Kubuabola, as Miss Hibiscus 1992. An emotional Kubuabola, a 21-year-old science student from Otago University in New Zealand, expressed her disbelief and gratitude, acknowledging her sponsors, family, and fellow contestants.
The first runner-up, Salote Kaimacuata from the Fiji National Provident Fund, is a 31-year-old lawyer, while the second runner-up, Sanya Gain, a 22-year-old customer benefits officer from Colonial Mutual Life, also received recognition for their charm and grace throughout the competition.
Yvonne Joseph, representing Bank of Baroda, showcased her commitment to charity by raising the second-highest amount. Following the crowning, Kubuabola, dressed in a striking black velvet gown with white puffy sleeves, interacted with the crowd.
The carnival offered exciting travel prizes sponsored by Air New Zealand, with Miss Hibiscus winning a trip to Los Angeles and Miss Charity heading to Honolulu, both receiving two tickets and $500 in spending money. The first runner-up was awarded return air tickets to Auckland as part of the charity efforts.
Suva’s Lord Mayor, Seni Buadromo, encouraged everyone to carry forward the spirit of togetherness until next year’s event. The festivities concluded with winners and contestants being escorted by soldiers from the Fiji Military Force, celebrating a week of camaraderie and community spirit.