NatureFiji-MareqetiViti

In June 2015, our Founding Trustee, Dr Dick Watling, raised concerns on the plight of Fiji’s pigeons (https://www.fijitimes.com.fj/on-behalf-of-pigeons/).
Today we welcome the decision of the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry Fiji to not open the shooting season this year, and to ensure we have good baseline data and monitoring protocols in place to guide future decisions.

Protected indigenous species behind pigeon shooting suspension The suspension of Fiji’s pigeon shooting season was driven largely by concerns that the birds targeted during the annual hunt are protected indigenous species under Fiji […]

‘Yes, we have a major household waste crisis in a number of parts of Fiji but if the Vuda-Saweni proposal is given the go-ahead there is no way that a $1.4 billion project can be properly regulated with what we have at the moment or in the short and medium term.’

Read more on our press release here:

VUDA PROJECT TOO BIG, TOO COMPLEX FOR FIJI, SAYS NATUREFIJI-MAREQETIVITI - NatureFiji-MareqetiViti NatureFiji-MareqetiViti warns Fiji lacks capacity to regulate the proposed $1.4B Vuda waste-to-energy project, citing environmental risks and governance gaps.

On this we stand together with some naturally red species found in Fiji and the Pacific, in recognition of the Pacific Red Cross workers and volunteers who show up for their communities in every crisis.

🌿 National Trust of Fiji | HIYH Junior Ranger Programme – Sigatoka

The National Trust of Fiji is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Heritage in Young Hands (HIYH) Freshmen Eco‑Camp, the entry point into our 3‑year Junior Ranger Programme.

📍 This programme will be run exclusively in Sigatoka and is specifically targeted at children from the Sigatoka area.

The Freshmen Eco‑Camp is designed to nurture young leaders through hands‑on learning in natural and cultural heritage, environmental stewardship, teamwork, and leadership, hosted at one of Fiji’s most significant protected areas.

🏕 Freshmen Eco‑Camp Details
Venue: Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park
Dates: 5–7 May 2026
Timing: First week of Term 1 School Holidays
Eligible age group: 9–11 years old (Classes 4–6)
Target group: Primary school students residing and attending school in the Sigatoka area

✅ This is a fully funded programme — there are no participation fees.�📄 All we require is a completed application form.

📝 How to Apply
Application forms will be distributed to primary schools in Sigatoka by Wednesday next week, or
Parents/guardians may request an application form by emailing:�📧 [email protected]

⚠️ Please note:�Submission of an application does not guarantee selection. All applications will be screened, and successful applicants will be notified.

🗓 Application Deadline: Friday, 17 April 2026

The HIYH Junior Ranger Programme is delivered by the National Trust of Fiji with the valued support of the Kiwa Initiative and Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji, strengthening nature‑based education, climate resilience, and community‑focused youth development.

🌱 We look forward to welcoming the next generation of Junior Rangers from Sigatoka.