Wairiki Mission

Wairiki Mission Taveuni

The mission is located on the outskirts of the town of Wairiki on the western coast of Taveuni. Taveuni's largest Catholic mission is a popular tourist site for travellers to the island and is set into the hillside overlooking the Somosomo Strait. A huge white cross dominates a peak above the mission and may be viewed from afar. Many resorts offer Sunday visits to the church to hear the splendid unaccompanied singing. The mission was built in 1907 of stone and has some of the best stained glass windows in Taveuni. The church has no pews and the congregation sit on woven mats on the floor in the traditional Fijian style. Come and enjoy the Wairiki Mission on Taveuni Island. Don't forget to leave your shoes at the door!

History recalls that the Mission overlooks the site of a significant battle with the Tongans, which - aided by the advice of a French Missionary priest - was won victoriously by the warriors of Taveuni and saved Fiji from their invading neighbours who had been winning battles in other parts of the Fiji Islands! The priest was rewarded by the Taveuni people through the building of the Mission at Wairiki.

Wairiki Mission ...

• Located 10 minutes drive from Somosomo, Taveuni's largest village
• Main place of worship for Catholics on Taveuni Island
• Built in 1907
• No pews - sitting is Fijian style, on mats on the floor
• Sunday morning mass is the best time to visit

Taveuni's Catholic Mission is a must-see when visiting the island.