Since the colonial years to date, new companies and investors have emerged with interest in exploring and mining Fiji lands and waters with hope of gathering as much deposits which would later be used for various matters important to global use. Recently in 2013, there were a number of sites identified to have been potential mining areas with Bauxite being a major find in the highlands of Vanua Levu. This has been described by Mineral Resources Department Acting Director Apete Soro, as a step forward for mining and for the people of Fiji as this signifies an advantage of bringing in more foreign investors.

Director Minerals said that there were other potential sites being explored for deposits of the mineral and some of the exploration sites that are being earmarked are situated in Nasarawaqa, Wainunu, Lekutu in Bua. "This promising news will mean a boost for economies in Bua and the North as a whole. We are eager to exploit for minerals as MRD will ensure that the processes followed will not have a degrading effect on the environment".

The mataqali Naita from the village of Votua in the district of Lekutu is the second mining area identified in the province of Bua on Vanua Levu. Mataqali spokesman, Tevita Raiova said such a development would greatly benefit the landowners and the people nearby. "The members have already given their consent to the bauxite company and we are looking forward to a new chapter in life" Mr Raiova said. Acting commissioner Northern Alipate Bolalevu said they were yet to receive the consent letter from the mataqali. However, he said the proposed development would not only benefit the Bua Province but the northern economy as a whole. "This is another economic activity that will surely boost the northern economy and we are thankful to the landowners for having this insight" he said.

Potentially speaking, it is believed that already certain exploration groups have shown interest in mining the findings in Vanua Levu and this would definitely bring about good fortunes and employment while at the same time being mindful of environmental issues.

The Department of Mineral Resources has four divisions namely:

1. Geological Services
2. Geological Survey
3. Environment & Mines
4. GeoScience Support Serivces 

Click on the website link to read more www.mrd.gov.fj