Landowners in Tavua are actively working on an ambitious new development project, Vatia City, which is poised to be a groundbreaking initiative for the local community and its indigenous residents. This extensive undertaking aims to surpass the scale of Nadi’s Port Denarau, introducing an international airport, hotels, a cruise liner wharf, and a commercial wharf.
Matai Raisowalu, manager of projects for Deluxe Management Services, emphasized the uniqueness of this project during a recent interview, explaining that it allows landowners to retain ownership of both their leases and the businesses established on their land. The initiative is structured as a 20-year integrated development lease that encompasses both tourism and residential components. Approximately 81 tourism leases, each around 10 acres, will be allocated alongside over 1,000 residential leases.
Raisowalu highlighted that this project targets the upscale global market, responding to current geopolitical conflicts by offering secure investment opportunities in Fiji. “The market is capturing the upscale market around the world and trying to capitalize with what is happening in these areas around the world,” he noted.
The development has garnered support from the five land-owning units involved: Tilivalevu, Mataqali Naitokotoko, Mataqali Tilavasewa, Mataqali Nadawa, and Mataqali Tikinasau. In an interesting facet of its history, foreign investors approached the project back in 2020, with an offer to buy the lease and the overarching concept. However, the response from the project’s director, Manasa Naivau, was a firm “no,” underlining the commitment to ensuring that landowners remain integral to the development process.
Raisowalu pointed out the importance of preserving ownership for future generations. “The aim was to promote that idea for the landowners to continue being the landowners, business owners, and lease holders on their own lands,” he stated. He also expressed gratitude for the backing from key figures such as Ifereimi Vasu, the Minister of iTaukei Affairs, as well as the management of the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) and local community members.
Through this project, the vision of enabling landowners to lease their land and manage their businesses is being realized, addressing a historical imbalance where they traditionally lacked such opportunities. As Vatia City moves forward, it represents not only a significant economic venture but also a step forward in empowering local communities and preserving their heritage and interests.
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