Cakaudrove Province, Fiji

Geography and population

The province covers a total land area of roughly 2,816 square kilometres and had an estimated population of about 50,000 people in 2017. Its terrain ranges from coastal lowlands and reefs to volcanic highlands on some islands. The province's position is near the international date line and can be referred to by its approximate coordinates (16°40′S 179°25′E).

Islands, communities and administration

Cakaudrove comprises part of the Vanua Levu island group and several smaller islands. Principal islands include:

• Taveuni — Fiji's third-largest island, known for rainforest, waterfalls and agricultural land;
• Rabi — an island inhabited largely by Banaban people resettled from Ocean Island in the mid-20th century;
• Kioa — settled by people of Tuvaluan descent in the 20th century and maintaining distinct cultural ties.

Administratively the province is organised into districts and villages under customary leadership. The traditional paramount chiefly title associated with the area is the Tui Cakau, a chiefly role of historical and cultural significance.

History and cultural notes

The islands of Cakaudrove were settled centuries ago by Austronesian voyagers and later developed distinctive local customs and chiefly structures. During the 19th and 20th centuries the region experienced missionary influence, colonial administration, and later integration into the modern state of Fiji. Rabi Island's Banaban community and Kioa's Tuvaluan-descended community are notable examples of migration and resettlement that shaped the province's demographic character.

Economy and significance

The provincial economy mixes subsistence and commercial activities: smallholder agriculture (kava, root crops, coconuts), commercial plantations on some islands, coastal fishing, and tourism centered on natural attractions and marine recreation. Savusavu has developed a marina, guest accommodations and services that attract domestic and international visitors, supporting local employment and conservation initiatives.

Distinguishing features and further information

Cakaudrove stands out for its combination of larger inhabited islands, culturally distinct communities, and scenic environments. The province is frequently mentioned in discussions of Fiji's island diversity and customary leadership. For a general overview see Cakaudrove, and for mapping and coordinate references consult the linked coordinate entry (map reference).