The 1990 Hibiscus festivities kicked off with the vibrant “March of Youth,” a festive parade that filled the main streets of the capital. On August 20, 1990, The Fiji Times reported that Suva was bustling with thousands of attendees celebrating the lively Air New Zealand Hibiscus Carnival.
The Fiji Police Band led the procession, accompanied by bands from the Salvation Army and the Fiji Military Forces. Schools from outside Suva, including RKS, QVS, and St John’s College from Ovalau, participated with their marching teams, while a playful parade of clowns added to the festivity. The event signified the official start of the carnival, with Robert Fullarton, Air New Zealand’s general manager for Fiji, joining the parade to emphasize the airline’s support for the occasion.
At Albert Park, Lord Mayor Paul Sloan delivered remarks about the significance of youth in building the future. “The Hibiscus Carnival is a time to have fun and embrace a spirit of relaxation for a week. Today’s youth must understand and embrace their important roles in society, as they will be the leaders of tomorrow,” Mr. Sloan stated. He announced Holy Trinity School as the overall best team, awarding them $200 in prize money, while Ratu Kadavulevu School and St Anne’s School placed as second and first runners-up, respectively.
The day’s festivities included a lively concert at Sukuna Park during lunch, followed by the initial judging of contestants at the Phoenix Theatre that evening. An inter-denominational service at Cruickshank Park and a Casino night at the Suva Travelodge rounded out the carnival celebrations.