Moana inspires children to protect Fiji's environment

A Disney classic has inspired young Fijians to become champions for the environment, with children urging people to protect Fiji's oceans, forests and beaches after learning valuable lessons from Moana.

Children and youths dressed as characters from the animated film brought the premiere of Moana to life at Life Cinemas in Nadi on Wednesday night.

They said the movie highlighted the close connection between people and nature, and the responsibility everyone shares to protect the environment.

Nadi Sangam School Year One student Kavya Kumar, 6, said Moana showed how damage to nature could affect both people and wildlife.

"We should stop littering, plant more trees and look after our oceans because they are important for our future," she said.

Mount Saint Mary School Year Two student Ishka Ishanvi, 8, said caring for the environment began with simple actions at home, school and in the community.

"If everyone does a little bit, we can make a big difference. We want people to keep Fiji clean and protect our beaches and forests," she said.

Movie enthusiast Aseri Abby Mataitini, 19, said the students' message encouraged both children and adults to reduce waste, recycle where possible and avoid polluting rivers and the sea.

"We all need to share the message of environmental care. The movie Moana inspired us to encourage people to protect Fiji's natural environment," Ms Mataitini said.

Timoci Lido, 23, of Galoa, Kadavu, who dressed as Maui, said the message reflected one of the film's central themes.

He said Moana showed that people and nature are connected, and protecting the environment would help secure a better future for generations to come.