MATAILOBAU COOPERATIVE LTD: THE FIRST COMMERCIAL FACILITY IN THE HIGHLANDS OF NAITASIRI
March 20, 2026
At the remarkable age of 96 in 2025, Turaga Na Tui Vuda, Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia, demonstrated outstanding leadership and foresight by establishing a tourism transport company known as Optimistic Tours and Transfer.
The company was founded with a clear purpose: to create sustainable economic opportunities for the people of Vuda and contribute to the long‑term development of the Vanua o Vuda. Optimistic Tours and Transfer is officially registered and operates from Viseisei Village, one of Fiji’s most historically significant villages and an important cultural heritage site.
The idea for the business began in 2018, when the Tui Vuda identified growing opportunities within Fiji’s tourism industry. Despite his advanced age, he remained committed to turning this vision into reality. After years of planning and preparation, the company was successfully registered and became operational.
To establish the business, the Tui Vuda made a major personal investment by purchasing five tourism‑standard vehicles at the outset. The fleet includes:
Three Toyota Hiace 15‑seater vans
One Toyota Prado
One Toyota Innova
All vehicles are fully equipped to meet tourism standards and are currently operational. The registered vehicle numbers are LH1561, LH1739, LH1740, LH1578, and LH1743.
A key achievement for Optimistic Tours and Transfer has been securing a transport services contract with Rosie Tours, one of Fiji’s leading tourism operators.
The day‑to‑day operations and management support of the business are being assisted by Mr. Meli Tora, who works closely with the Tui Vuda to ensure smooth and effective operations.
According to Mr. Meli Tora, the Tui Vuda was determined to establish a business that would benefit his vanua during his lifetime and continue supporting future generations. When he observed that no one had taken the initiative, he chose to lead by example—setting a benchmark for landowners and traditional leaders across Fiji.
Beyond transport services, the partnership with Rosie Tours has created further opportunities for the community. The company has also been engaged to support village tours in Viseisei Village.
Under the direction of the Tui Vuda, the village tour operations have been assigned to Vanua o Vuda Holdings. This initiative is expected to create employment opportunities for more than 20 people, particularly youth and community members seeking income‑earning opportunities.
