The Rosie Travel Group has launched its Vualiku initiative in alignment with the Government’s tourism development plan for Vanua Levu. This marks a significant milestone as Rosie Vualiku becomes the first such initiative in the North, working directly with selected community-based tourism operators to nurture, train, and develop their potential. The initiative is designed to complement the growing base of adventure tourism experiences while delivering economic empowerment to local communities.
In its initial phase, seven communities—working in partnership with ground operator Muanivatu Trails—have entered a mentorship agreement to deliver a unique range of adventure experiences. These experiences showcase the cultural richness, natural environment, and artistic traditions across these communities. The signing and launch ceremony took place at Vuadomo Village on Monday, 9 June, and was attended by representatives from all seven participating communities across the Cakaudrove Province, as well as delegates from Tourism Fiji, the Savusavu Tourism Association, and local businesses.
Speaking at the ceremony, Rosie Travel Group General Manager Eroni Puamau stated that this moment was not only a meaningful milestone for the group’s first presence in the North, but also significant due to its approach—engaging through community pathways to nurture and elevate local resource owners into independently operating tourism enterprises, backed by Rosie’s global network.
Puamau added, “Fifty years ago, a young lady named Rosie had the same dream that many of you now see in tourism. From her legacy, our vision is to continue supporting communities to turn those dreams into reality—sharing our knowledge, infrastructure, and resources to transform the industry beyond previous limits. Our goal is to continue this development across the entire Northern island.”
Signing the agreement on behalf of the communities was Epeli Asaro, Managing Director of Muanivatu Trails, alongside representatives from the participating villages. Asaro commented, “This is a historic moment for our vanua and our people. We have long dreamed of unlocking our tourism potential, and today, that journey begins—with deep gratitude and anticipation. This partnership with Rosie Vualiku is built on shared values and a vision of mutual respect. We look forward to the learning, development, and shared prosperity this journey will bring as we grow our tourism economy.”
The Rosie Vualiku initiative will deliver the following:
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REFERENCES: This guide is based on over a decade of research and firsthand experience living in Fiji. It incorporates extensive knowledge gained through long-term residence and ongoing engagement with the region. Images and text have been sourced from official references, which are acknowledged below, to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
FOOTNOTES: Additional details, clarifications, or sources referenced in this article are included as Footnotes below the text when applicable; otherwise, no Footnotes are provided.