Jason Tutani and his place in the Park
Jason Tutani loves his job as the Park Manager for the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park and the Momi Battery Historical Park.
He was working for the National Trust of Fiji for nearly 15 years.
“I love the work as I get to share with visitors (local and international) some of Nadroga’s special places and use the platform to advocate for a better world.
“When I’m not a ranger, I spend time doing my other favourite things like reading, writing poems and short stories, exploring new places, combing through thrift stores and playing volleyball,” he said.
Mr Tutani was born and raised in Sigatoka.
How many places in Fiji have you been to?
I have visited a good number of places in Fiji. I’ve done most of Viti Levu and some parts of Vanua Levu. Vanua Levu is beautiful, I must say.
I love the location of Savusavu Town, and it has such a quaint vibe. I have visited some of the islands in the Lau group. Those islands far away from the mainland are quite beautiful and their beaches and sea are pristine.
I have visited some of the islands in the Lomaiviti group too. Not too bad. Next on my list is Kadavu and maybe, Yasawa if I get more time off work soon.
What is the one place in Fiji you would take every visitor to, and why?
This may sound biased because I work there, but it will have to be the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park. It’s the best place to get an idea of what Fiji has to offer. The National Park is a wonderful introduction to Fiji’s natural and cultural heritage and it’s the best reason why Fiji keeps excelling at 7’s rugby.
What is your favourite place for a pie or coffee, and why?
I like to keep things simple. So, for pie, I would go to the Hot Bread Kitchen in Sigatoka. They make a wicked Chilli Chicken pie and for my caffeine fix.
I go to Cuppabula Cafe in Tappoo Sigatoka. They make good coffee and it’s right by the Sigatoka River. So, I can get to sip my coffee and take a trip on the river.
What is your favourite secret backyard spot?
It’s a secret but I will give you some hints. It’s a place I go in the National Park quite often. My little corner away from all the craziness.
It’s heavily populated by native trees, which provide excellent shelter from the sun. It’s home to a good collection of wildlife and lacks anything man-made.
I go there for quiet time, to reflect and get some inspiration. And most often to watch nature at play.
What is the one place in Fiji that is on the top of your bucket list?
Aside from Kadavu and Yasawa, it will have to be my Dad’s home island, Vanua Balavu. I hear it’s quite beautiful.
I heard my dad talk about the Bay of Islands there when he was reminiscing about his childhood and that always stayed in my head. I really want to check it out.
An aunt of mine went on one of Captain Cook’s Cruises a couple of months ago (before the second wave) where she visited the island. Her review was positive. I’m very tempted to make it happen soon.