Revitalising Port of Suva, Fiji: Seaport infrastructure and urban waterfront development
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Authors
Kumar, Pranay
Author ORCID Profiles (clickable)
Degree
Master of Architecture (Professional)
Grantor
Unitec, Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology
Date
2024
Supervisors
Budgett, Jeanette
Schnoor, Christoph
Schnoor, Christoph
Type
Masters Thesis
Ngā Upoko Tukutuku (Māori subject headings)
Keyword
Fiji
Suva (Fiji)
cruise ship terminals
waterfront architecture
architecture and culture
tourism
port cities
Fijian architecture
Pasifika
Suva (Fiji)
cruise ship terminals
waterfront architecture
architecture and culture
tourism
port cities
Fijian architecture
Pasifika
ANZSRC Field of Research Code (2020)
Citation
Kumar, P. (2024) Revitalising Port of Suva, Fiji: Seaport infrastructure and urban waterfront development (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Architecture (Professional)). Unitec, Te Pūkenga - New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology https://hdl.handle.net/10652/6646
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION
How can the Port of Suva address the need for a better arrival experience for cruise ship tourists and increase the cargo-carrying capacity of the port for economic growth? In addition, how can the port development enhance the urban waterfront for the residents of Suva and recognise the maritime voyaging legacy and architectonic culture of Oceania and Fiji?
ABSTRACT
This thesis focuses on developing the seaport infrastructure at the Port of Suva. The project proposes a cruise port that hosts a cruise terminal building, a tour, hospitality and office building, and a maritime museum building. In addition, an integrated urban waterfront is proposed that includes a promenade with waterfront parks and recreational facilities. This comes because of the current situation at the port of Suva, which faces significant challenges. Currently, the port cannot handle the growing demands of both cruise and cargo operations. Challenges include limited capacity, outdated and insufficient infrastructure for cruise tourists, and the shared port spaces between cargo and cruise operations affecting the efficiency and overall experience of cruise tourists.
The design proposal of the project focuses on developing waterfront spaces and buildings that enhance the arrival experience of tourists and reflect the maritime voyaging legacy and architectonic culture of Oceania and Fiji.
A comprehensive site analysis indicates the possibility of a port extension, and exploring Fiji's voyaging legacy and material culture suggests some key design drivers. Supporting analyses of international cruise terminals provide insights for creating vibrant public spaces and enhancing passenger experience. The project proposes a comprehensive redevelopment of the port of Suva, where the design showcases the architectonic culture of Fiji. Integrating cultural themes like traditional architectural forms, Fijian canoe elements, carvings, patterns, and materials creates a sense of place and connection to Fijian culture on arrival for tourists while connecting residents to their local cultural heritage. Ultimately, infrastructure development at the port of Suva is a transformative project that addresses cultural preservation, economic growth, and sustainable development.
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