The island of Taveuni is located approximately six kilometres off the south-eastern coast of Vanua Levu and is the third largest island within the Republic of the Fiji Islands. Taveuni is the island where the International Date Line crosses land in Fiji and is known for its pristine natural beauty and its large areas of unspoilt tropical habitats. These are exemplified in the 15,000 hectare Bouma National Heritage Park, which includes Mount Uluigalau, Fiji’s second highest peak at 1,241 metres, the volcanic Lake Tagimaucia which lies in a crater at 800 metres, and Fiji’s popular Bouma Falls. Known as an adventurer’s and nature-lover’s paradise, Taveuni offers visitors extensive rainforests, pristine beaches and world-class coral reefs, including the famous Rainbow Reef and Vuna Reef. Taveuni Island is also well known for its abundant flora which prompted its nickname the ‘Garden Island of Fiji’, and provides visitors with an extensive range of opportunities to enjoy walking, hiking, snorkelling, diving and game fishing, plus the experience of exploring its many traditional villages.
The island is sparsely populated with only an estimated 14,000 inhabitants living in approximately 35 villages and small communities, with most located on the more protected western coastline. Covering over 430 square kilometres, Taveuni was formed by volcanic action millions of years ago through the eruptions of a shield volcano, which has created an elongated shaped land mass that rises to a central ridge which runs the complete length of the island. Stretching for over 60 kilometres and being only 25 kilometres wide, the largest settlements on Taveuni are the twin villages of Somosomo and Nagara which are home to the main shopping areas, and Waiyevo which is recognised as the main administrative centre. The island services its residents and visitors with a variety of markets, shops, bakeries, restaurants, banking and medical services. The airport on Taveuni is located on the far northern coastline in the small town of Matei.
|