- Savusavu
Savusavu is a town in the
Fiji an Province ofCakaudrove on the island ofVanua Levu , with a population of 4,962 at the 1996census , the last held. It has been called "The Hidden Paradise" of Fiji.Geography
Savusavu is famous for its hot springs, located mostly opposite the Hot Springs Hotel. Another natural landmark is
Nawi Island , just offshore from Savusavu.The old
Copra Shed Marina , build in the Nineteenth Century, is a major landmark in Savusavu. Renovated in recent years bygeologist and Savusavu resident Geoff Taylor, it now houses theSavusavu Yacht Club , a café (Captain's Cafe), a restaurant run by the former chef of the J.M. Cousteau Resort (Surf and Turf) ,Fiji Air offices, Pacific Sun reservations (Formerly Sun Air) offices, a chandlery shop, a geologist's office, a gift shop, travel agency and two rental apartments. There are also moorings for yachts, along with shower and toilet facilities.Another significant landmark is the
Savarekareka Mission , 10 kilometers north of Savusavu. The chapel, the first Roman Catholic mission on Vanua Levu, was built around 1870 and is still functioning.Economic activities
Savusavu was originally established as a trading center for
sandalwood ,beche-de-mer andcopra , and is the site of a major copra mill.Tourism is growing in importance, owing to itsdiving andyachting facilities. Geothermal energy is resource waiting to be tapped. A geological survey has found that Savusavu's hot springs could generate enough electricity to power the entire island of Vanua Levu.Politics
Incorporated as a Town in 1969, Savusavu is governed by a 9-member Town Council, elected for a three-year term. The Councillors elect a Mayor from among themselves for a one-year term, which may be renewed any number of times. Following the victory of the
Savusavu Ratepayers and Citizens Party in the municipal elections held on22 October 2005 ,Ram Pillay was chosen as Mayor, succeedingPeni Naulu of the Lighthouse Party.External links
* [http://www.virtual-fiji.com/vana_levu_hotels.htm Savusavu Hotel Guide]
* [http://www.fiji-savusavu.com/ Savusavu Tourism Association]
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