Interior of the Assambly of Fiji in the city of Suva. Viti Levu island. Oceania.

Getty Images/age fotostock RM

Parliament of Fiji

Suva


Opened in June 1992, the parliament complex must be one of the world’s most striking political hubs. It was designed in the post-1987 atmosphere. The aim of maintaining indigenous Fijian values is apparent through the open-air corridors, traditional arts and structures, and masi cloths throughout. The main building, vale ne bose lawa (parliament house), takes its form from the traditional vale (family house) and has ceremonial access from Ratu Sukuna Rd.

The complex is 5km south of the city centre. Free tours are offered, but you need to email in advance to arrange the visit. It's also possible to watch debates when parliament is in session – a calendar of sitting days is available on the website.

It’s easiest to reach by taxi, but you can hop on a bus along Queen Elizabeth Dr and walk along Ratu Sukuna Rd for 1km.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Suva attractions

1. Fiji Museum

0.79 MILES

This museum offers a great journey into Fiji’s historical and cultural and evolution. To enjoy the exhibits in chronological order, start with the…

2. Thurston Gardens

0.87 MILES

After visiting the museum, ponder on your new found knowledge with a wander through these compact but beautiful gardens ( M032A). The dense conglomeration…

3. University of the South Pacific

0.94 MILES

While not necessarily a must-see from a tourist’s perspective, this is the foremost provider of tertiary education to the island nations of the Pacific…

4. Oceania Centre for Arts & Culture

0.94 MILES

Arts centre at the University of the South Pacific, which hosts regular live music, dance and theatre, art shows, talks and other cultural events.

5. Albert Park

0.95 MILES

Charles Kingsford Smith was the first aviator to cross the Pacific, flying in his little Fokker trimotor, The Southern Cross, from California to Australia…

6. Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple

1.14 MILES

Just east of downtown, this bright orange and blue temple generally has a caretaker around to let you in for a look.

7. Holy Trinity Cathedral

1.24 MILES

This cathedral, with its unique boat-shaped interior, interesting Fijian tapestries and wood-beamed ceiling, is a peaceful retreat. The gigantic tree in…

8. Roman Catholic Cathedral

1.36 MILES

This 1902 cathedral is built from sandstone imported from Sydney and is one of Suva’s most prominent landmarks.