90 hectares of pine stands damaged in Ono, Kadavu blaze

Approximately 90 hectares of pine stands earmarked for harvest in the coming months were affected by a fire at the Naqara Pine Scheme on Ono Island, Kadavu this week.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry confirmed the incident, which broke out on Monday, 22 September 2025, and was finally contained two days later through the swift efforts of Naqara villagers and local leaders.

Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu said the fire threatened Naqara Village and its school but was stopped before reaching them.

“We are thankful no lives were lost, and the community rallied tirelessly to prevent further damage,” she said.

Preliminary damage estimates have been confirmed by the Fiji Pine Trust, with a full ground assessment now being prepared.

A team comprising Forestry Operations staff and Fiji Pine Trust officers will travel to Ono to map the damaged blocks, identify recoverable logs, and update the pine inventory to guide recovery.

The Ministry said it would continue working closely with the Fiji Pine Trust, police, and affected communities to ensure recovery, salvage operations, and stronger fire prevention strategies in the future.