In the 1980s, the aquarium in Suva, Fiji, faced significant adversity that ultimately led to its closure. The Fiji Times reported on November 15, 1984, that plans were set to shut down the facility after struggling since its inception four years earlier. By the end of that month, the only remaining operation would be the Anchor Inn cafe within the revamped Old Town Hall.
Fiji Bio-Marine Ltd, which had managed the Town Hall since 1980, collaborated with the Suva City Council to sub-lease the building. John Hill, a director of the company, attributed the aquarium’s challenges to profitability issues, emphasizing that Suva required a larger influx of tourists to support such attractions sustainably. The aquarium itself spanned over 20,000 square feet and included several noteworthy spaces, such as the Crystal Palace suite and the Blue Heron shop.
Cr Navin Maharaj, the Lord Mayor of Suva, confirmed that the council had approved unrestricted use of the facility under adherence to local planning and zoning regulations. Proposed ideas for repurposing the building included transforming the Crystal Palace into executive suites while redesigning the aquarium area as a mini-market, health, or fitness center that would be subdivided into office spaces. The basement was also identified as suitable for storage.
During the transition, a closing down sale was organized for December 1, allowing surplus items from the aquarium, including live fish, tanks, corals, fishing nets, and antique furniture, to be sold. The sharks and turtles were relocated to friends, marking the end of this particular chapter in Suva’s history.
Although the closure of the aquarium may initially appear to be a loss, it paves the way for exciting redevelopment opportunities in the area, highlighting a transformative phase for Suva’s Old Town Hall. This change reflects a hopeful future where the community can thrive and embrace new possibilities for growth and revitalization.