The 1990 Hibiscus festivities opened with the colourful “March of Youth”, a lively parade that wove through the capital’s main streets.

On Monday, August 20, 1990, The Fiji Times reported how the city of Suva came alive as thousands gathered to celebrate the vibrant Air New Zealand Hibiscus Carnival.

Leading the procession were the Fiji Police Band, followed by the Salvation Army and Fiji Military Forces bands.

Schools from beyond Suva, including RKS, QVS, and Ovalau’s St John’s College, added to the excitement with their marching teams, while a whimsical touch was provided by a parade of clowns.  The event marked the festival’s official opening, with Air New Zealand’s general manager for Fiji, Robert Fullarton, participating in the parade to underscore the airline’s support for the carnival. At Albert Park, Lord Mayor Paul Sloan delivered a speech highlighting the importance of youths in shaping the future.

“The Hibiscus Carnival is a time to have fun, and enjoy the spirit of relaxation for a week. The youths of today must realise and accept the importance of their role in society as they would be the leaders of tomorrow” Mr Sloan said.

Mr Sloan announced Holy Trinity as the best overall team, awarding them $200 in prizemoney.

Ratu Kadavulevu School and St Anne’s School followed as second and first runners-up respectively.

The day’s events continued with a lively lunch-hour concert at Sukuna Park and the first judging of contestants at the Phoenix Theatre in the evening.  An inter-denominational service at Cruickshank Park and a Casino night at the Suva Travelodge rounded out the festivities.