Matuku - Customs

Where is Matuku?

This beautiful, verdant, high volcanic island lies in the Western Lau group and while it is a bit off the beaten track, it is well worth a visit with its crater open to the west through a wide, clear pass.

There are seven villages spread around the coast. The main village is Yaroi, on the NW coast.  The people are super-friendly, there are several good anchorages and the reef is simply beautiful according to cruisers who have made the effort to visit the island.

Boats that anchor in Lomati Bay should do their sevusevu in the little village of Lomati. Those who anchor behind Wailangi should take the dinghy northwards around the corner to the main village of Yaroi and if you decide to anchor off Makadru, you can take your bundle of kava ashore and do your  sevusevu there.

Entrance Notes and Cautions for Matuku:

The island is surrounded by a lively barrier reef and a narrow, navigable pass on the western side that can be safely navigated in most conditions - except maybe strong westerlies.  The Pass leads to lagoon with two safe, protected and comfortable anchorages.

The islanders of Matuku have implemented three big "Tabu" (traditional ban) no-fishing zones around their island to protect all species of reef fish, with the help of Austrian cruisers Birgit Hackl and Christian Feldhauer.  Read how it happened and check out the Tabu zones in the following 2023 report along with a 2024 update.

• Cruisers Help Establish a New Marine Reserve
• An Attractive Destination in Fiji's Lau Group

Cruiser Highlights for Matuku:

Cruisers are encouraged to visit this (still) pristine and healthy marine environment, enjoy the wonderful snorkelling, praise the islanders for their environmental efforts and leave a donation to help them maintain and patrol their "Tabu" no-fishing zones.

Position:

19º 09.34'S, 179º 43.69'E (entrance)

Last updated:  May 2024