Parks offer a respite from the world of traffic jams, office cubicles and artificial light, some say.
For many Fijians, this rings true, and one of the best places to experience this — is at the refurbished Ratu Sukuna Park in Suva.
For many years, this melting pot has been a well-known gathering spot for people from all walks of life.
Children, youths, older adults and even our elderly converge at the park daily to either tuck into a meal, catch up on the latest gossips or enjoy a stress-free environment.
The Ratu Sukuna Park reopened in August and has since received positive feedback from members of the public.
According to The Fiji Times records, the refurbishment of the park was estimated to have cost about seven million dollars.
Upon entering the park, members of the public are welcomed by the gentle cascade of the two water fountains.
The main entrance of the park has a monument of the late Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna with a park signage.
There are a few entry and exit points and one of the new features of the park is the fact that it is now fully fenced.
This was not the case in previous years.
There are more seat and tables too.
“This newly upgraded park now features modern amenities such as a new podium structure, design night lights, modern park furniture, digital screen with surround sound, and an improved landscape that blends hardscape with greenspace,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade Manoa Kamikamica said while officiating at the park’s reopening event.
Mr Kamikamica said the new look park was a significant symbol of “national progress and urban renewal”.
The Sunday Times caught up with a few members of the public and asked them what they thought of the renovation work done to the park.
Nasinu resident, Setaita Ratu of Rewa shared pleasant sentiments about the reopening.
“I really love the new layout. We can take a moment to rest and rejuvenate ourselves… after a very tiring day at work,” she said.
“I am really pleased with the new features and the new layout especially the multipurpose podium, bigger and better tables and benches that can fit everyone, especially for us plus size women.”
“It (seats) provides comfort which complements the scenic view that surrounds the facility, not forgetting the water fountain.”
For Lavenia Bune of Vanua Levu, she acknowledged the historical link of the park and the late Ratu Sukuna.
The Suva resident further shared what she liked about the refurbished park.
“The refurbishment has brought a lush, well-maintained landscape with extensive green lawns and beautifully planted flower beds.
“This provides a refreshing environment for relaxation and recreation.”
She said the additional modern amenities like upgraded restrooms, improved lighting and new seating areas made the park more “user-friendly” and “accessible”.
“The introduction of charging ports is also a welcome feature for visitors who want to stay connected while enjoying the outdoors.”
Lavenia’s best features is the water fountains.
“The inclusion of water feature such as fountains or small ponds add an element of tranquillity and aesthetic appeal.
“These features not only enhance the park’s beauty but also contribute to its overall ambiance.”
Lavenia said the park tied in a historical link with modern features in a communal space.
“To conclude, the newly refurbished Ratu Sukuna Park remains an important landmark in Suva, both as a place for relaxation and as a historical site commemorating one of Fiji’s most influential figures,” Lavenia said.
Architecture student, Lucile Rayawa, said she liked the spacing of the park.
“I liked the spacing, the designs of the park are not overcrowded,” she said.
“I like the stage, the gate designs and the fountains are really lovely.
“I also like the benching with powerpoints.”
Lucile said the different types of seating areas at the park offered added comfort and convenience for members of the public.
She added that maintaining the trees at the park created a sense of nostalgia.
“This is like the third time I’ve visited. We usually went to Thurston Garden when Ratu Sukuna was closed, but now it’s reopened and much closer to town.”
Daniel Fesaitu of Rotuma particularly liked the greenery in the park.
“This was the first time for me and my son to come here and we liked the plants and seats compared to the previous design,” he said.
Daniel added Ratu Sukuna Park allowed everyone to sit together and eat, saying it was a better choice than eating at a restaurant.
Organising Committee Chair Jeremiah Volavola revealed during the opening that the project was designed to be “inclusive” and provide a space for individuals to enjoy.
“The park is fully funded by the Suva Cit Council (SCC), so we worked with whatever funds were available for this project and managed to bring it down to $7m.
“We know that the public has been quite eager to get the opening done and we have been receiving a lot of questions.”
Mr Volavola said they wanted to reopen the park to coincide with the opening of the Hisbicus Festival.
“Despite the changes to the initial plan, the completed park is expected to offer significant value and enjoyment the people of Suva.”
