Parks serve as a sanctuary away from the chaos of traffic, office life, and artificial lighting, a sentiment echoed by many Fijians. One of the prime locations to enjoy this tranquility is the newly renovated Ratu Sukuna Park in Suva, a long-standing gathering place for residents from diverse backgrounds.
Families, children, and senior citizens visit the park daily to enjoy meals, catch up, or simply relax in an inviting atmosphere. The park, which reopened to the public in August, has garnered positive reactions since its refurbishment, which cost approximately seven million dollars, as reported by The Fiji Times.
Visitors are greeted by the soothing sound of two water fountains as they enter the park. The entrance features a monument honoring the late Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna along with park signage. The now fully fenced area, an improvement from previous years, has multiple entry and exit points and includes newly added seating and tables.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade Manoa Kamikamica, who officiated the reopening, highlighted the park’s modern amenities, which include a new podium, upgraded night lighting, contemporary furniture, a digital screen with surround sound, and improved landscaping that combines hardscape with green areas. He described the renovated park as a reflection of “national progress and urban renewal.”
Members of the community have praised the renovations. Setaita Ratu from Nasinu expressed her appreciation for the new layout, saying it provides a welcoming space to unwind after a long day at work. She especially likes the multipurpose podium and the improved seating, which accommodates larger individuals comfortably.
Lavenia Bune from Vanua Levu noted the park’s historical significance and complimented the lush landscape filled with green lawns and vibrant flower beds. She mentioned that the upgraded facilities, including restrooms and new seating areas with charging ports, create a more user-friendly environment. Lavenia particularly enjoys the tranquility provided by the water fountains.
Architecture student Lucile Rayawa also shared her thoughts, mentioning the spacious design of the park and the appealing fountain features. She appreciates the variety of seating options and the nostalgia associated with the maintained trees.
Daniel Fesaitu from Rotuma commented on the park’s improved greenery, praising the new layout as inviting for families. He believes that dining in the park is preferable to restaurants, fostering a communal dining experience.
Jeremiah Volavola, the Chair of the Organising Committee, conveyed that the project was crafted to be inclusive, ensuring it serves as a welcoming space for the community. The Suva City Council fully funded the renovations, maintaining costs at seven million dollars. Plans were made to reopen the park alongside the Hibiscus Festival, with Volavola noting that despite some changes to the initial plans, the revamped park is poised to offer significant enjoyment to the people of Suva.