Savusavu is a town in the Fijian Province of Cakaudrove on the island of Vanua Levu, with a population of 4,962 at the 1996 census, the last held. It has been called "The Hidden Paradise" of Fiji.
Geography
Savusavu is famous for its hot springs, located mostly opposite the Hot Springs Hotel. Another natural landmark is Nawi Island, just offshore from Savusavu.
The old Copra Shed Marina, build in the Nineteenth Century, is a major landmark in Savusavu. Renovated in recent years by geologist and Savusavu resident Geoff Taylor, it now houses the Savusavu Yacht Club, a café, a Japanese Restaurant ("Cruisers"),Fiji Air offices, Sun Air (soon to be Fiji Airlines) offices, a bottle shop (liquor store), a chandlery shop, a geologist's office, and two rental apartments. There are also moorings for yachts, along with shower and toilet facilities.
Another significant landmark is the Savarekareka Mission, 10 kilometers north of Savusavu. The chapel, the first Roman Catholic mission on Vanua Levu, was built around 1870 and is still functioning.
Economic activities
Savusavu was originally established as a trading center for sandalwood, beche-de-mer and copra, and is the site of a major copra mill. Tourism is growing in importance, owing to its diving and yachting facilities. Geothermal energy is resource waiting to be tapped. A geological survey has found that Savusavu's hot springs could generate enough electricity to power the entire island of Vanua Levu.
Politics
Incorporated as a Town in 1969, Savusavu is governed by a 9-member Town Council, elected for a three-year term. The Councillors elect a Mayor from among themselves for a one-year term, which may be renewed any number of times. Following the victory of the Savusavu Ratepayers and Citizens Party in the municipal elections held on 22 October 2005, Ram Pillay was chosen as Mayor, succeeding Peni Naulu of the Lighthouse Party.
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