Makogai Island | Lomaiviti Group

Information

Landmark: Makogai Island
City: Lomaiviti Group
Country: Fiji
Continent: Australia

Makogai Island, Lomaiviti Group, Fiji, Australia

Makogai Island is an 840-hectare island in the Lomaiviti Archipelago, located approximately 15 nautical miles northeast of Levuka. It is primarily known for its historical role as a regional leprosarium and its current function as a marine research and conservation station.1

Historical Significance (1911–1969)

For over 50 years, Makogai served as a world-renowned leprosy colony managed by the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary.2

Leper Colony: At its peak, the island housed thousands of patients from across the South Pacific.

Infrastructure: Remnants of the hospital, patient quarters, a cinema, and specialized wards are still visible. The island features a distinct cemetery with thousands of graves, categorized by the patients' religious and ethnic backgrounds.

Closure: The facility closed in 1969 following advancements in medical treatment and the repatriation of patients.

Marine Conservation and Research

Today, the island is managed by the Fiji Ministry of Fisheries and is a designated Mariculture Research Station.3

Giant Clam Sanctuary: Makogai is the primary site for Fiji's giant clam (Tridacna gigas) breeding program. The station houses nurseries where clams are raised before being transplanted to reefs across Fiji.

Turtle Conservation: The island serves as a sanctuary for hawksbill and green sea turtles.4

Protected Area: The surrounding waters are a Marine Protected Area (MPA), strictly regulated to allow for the recovery of reef ecosystems.5

Geography and Infrastructure

Topography: The island is volcanic with steep ridges, dense forest, and white sand beaches. Dalice Bay is the primary anchorage and site of the research station.

Village: A small community of Ministry of Fisheries staff and their families reside on the island.

Access: Accessible only by private boat or government vessel. There is no scheduled commercial transport or airstrip.

Protocols: Visitors must obtain prior permission from the Ministry of Fisheries in Suva or Levuka. Standard sevusevu protocols apply if visiting the resident community.