The 1992 Air New Zealand Suva Hibiscus Carnival achieved unprecedented success, raising a record-breaking $187,006.13.
This remarkable feat was highlighted by The Fiji Times on Monday, August 24 that year.
The article recorded the crowning of Miss National Bank of Fiji, Setaitata Tamanikaiyaroi, as Miss Charity, noting she raised an impressive $53,313.
The carnival, which showcased a vibrant float parade on Saturday afternoon, attracted thousands of spectators to the streets of Suva.
With temperatures soaring into the 30s, the contestants dazzled in summer dresses, and for the first time in years, the event enjoyed favourable weather conditions throughout the week.
The highlight of the carnival came on Saturday night at Albert Park, where the traditional crowning ceremony took place.
In a stark contrast to the previous year’s rainy conditions, thousands gathered to witness the event.
The contestants, dressed in stunning full-length evening gowns in colours such as emerald green, purple, black, mauve, and peach, made a lasting impression.
The evening was marked by a memorable moment as Miss Reserve Bank of Fiji, Elisapeci Kubuabola, was crowned Miss Hibiscus 1992 by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
An emotional Kubuabola, a 21-year-old science student from Otago University in New Zealand, expressed her surprise and gratitude, thanking her sponsors, family, and fellow contestants.
The first runner-up was Miss Fiji National Provident Fund, Salote Kaimacuata, a 31-year-old lawyer, while the second runner-up was Miss Colonial Mutual Life, Sanya Gain, a 22-year-old customer benefits officer.
Miss Kaimacuata and Miss Gain both received accolades for their poise and charm throughout the competition.
In addition to the crowning of Miss Charity, the event featured Yvonne Joseph as Miss Bank of Baroda, who raised the second-highest amount for charity.
Following the crowning, Ms Kubuabola, clad in a striking black velvet gown with white puffy sleeves, greeted the crowd and engaged with the public.
The carnival also provided exciting travel opportunities courtesy of Air New Zealand.
Miss Hibiscus was awarded a trip to Los Angeles, while Miss Charity received a trip to Honolulu.
Both queens were given two tickets each and $500 in spending money.
Additionally, Air New Zealand provided return air tickets to Auckland for the first runner-up in the charity chest.
Suva’s Lord Mayor, Seni Buadromo, encouraged everyone to maintain the carnival spirit of togetherness until the next year’s event.
The night concluded with winners and contestants being escorted by Fiji Military Force soldiers, celebrating a week of camaraderie and community spirit.
