Words by Robin Yarrow
Photo: Rowly Emmett
MOMI BATTERY HISTORIC PARK Momi Bay, about half an hour drive out of Nadi, played a key role during World War II. As the shadow of WWII blanketed the planet, Fiji become a prime target for attacks due to its strategic location amid the waters of the Pacific. Determined to keep the Fijian islands from falling into enemy hands, the New Zealand Expeditionary Forces constructed defenses at various points throughout Viti Levu. Momi was selected in order to protect the Navula Passage, a vulnerable break in the western reef.
Today, visitors can walk through Momi Battery Historic Park’s gun site and explore the well preserved buildings that make up the gun battery, the command posts, magazine room and other structures. View extensive displays at the new Visitor Information Centre to learn more about a proud period in Fiji’s history. Enjoy spectacular views out over Momi Bay and the Mamanuca Islands, an ideal location for photography. Managed by the National Trust of Fiji the site is open Monday to Sunday and on public holidays. Open 8am to 4:30pm. Tel: 4501353.
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his is one of the very few coast artillery batteries in the world still in possession of its original guns – a fact Fiji can be very proud of. That it is now a major tourist attraction is most pleasing, as not all of Fiji’s built heritage is fortunate to be in this preserved and accessible position. The support provided by the Government of Fiji in the restoration process of the Momi site and in particular, with funding the new Visitor Center, is indeed commendable. It is important that we value and protect our built past to benefit future generations, both residents and visitors alike, and of the opportunity to better understand and appreciate the past contribution to the nation’s rich and diverse history to development
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- in this case of a military nature, by way of an interpretive original facility, such as that at Momi. The strategic value of Momi Battery, being in an elevated position directly opposite the main Navula Passage, through which ocean-going vessels to Lautoka Port and Vuda Point fuel terminal have to pass, was an absolute strength. Momi Battery is one of seven coastal defensive emplacements, including Bilo Battery opposite Suva, which were constructed during the early part of WWII, in preparation for what became the planned invasion of Fiji by Japan. The seriousness of the situation was reflected in the night-time blackouts and curfews in place in Suva-Nausori
