The Coalition Government has taken another step in its commitment to improving public infrastructure and community spaces with the groundbreaking ceremony for the upgrade of the Nasau Park Pavilion in Levuka yesterday.

The ceremony was officiated by Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa, who said the project reflects Government’s focus on investing in facilities that support sports development, community activities and the preservation of Fiji’s heritage.

Nalumisa said Nasau Park holds an important place in Fiji’s sporting and social history, having long served as a centre for sports, recreation and community gatherings on Ovalau.

He highlighted the park’s historic significance as the home ground of the Levuka Football Club and Ovalau Rugby Club, noting that competitive football was first played at the venue in 1904 during celebrations marking the golden jubilee of the Deed of Cession.

The pavilion upgrade project, funded through Coalition Government grant assistance, will be undertaken by 4K Construction at a cost of $226,965.31 and is expected to be completed within 15 weeks.

Once completed, the upgraded pavilion will include seating capacity for up to 250 people, improved male and female amenities, and upgraded changing rooms equipped with showers and toilets to better cater for sporting events, community functions and public use.

Nalumisa said the development would directly benefit the 23 villages and four tikina on Ovalau, while also creating opportunities for the Levuka Town Council to generate revenue through venue hire.

He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting municipal councils and improving public recreational spaces across the country, saying parks and sporting facilities play an important role in encouraging healthy lifestyles, strengthening social cohesion and preserving Fiji’s heritage.

The Coalition Government has allocated $483,400 in the 2025–2026 financial year to support capital projects and solid waste management services for the Levuka Town Council.