People from the different islands in the Lau group converged in Lakeba today to make presentations to the soon to installed Tui Nayau, Tui Lau and Sau ni Vanua o Lau, Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara.
The sacred ground at Tubou Village, where the installation will take place, has been silent in anticipation of the historic occasion.
The people from Kabara, who are well known for their craftsmanship, presented beautifully crafted tanoa, and lali to Ratu Tevita.
The warrior clan of Yadrana are on high alert as they are tasked to watch over the installation area before Ratu Tevita ascends to the title next Thursday.
The traditional fishing method known as "qoli vakavanua" was also witnessed to mark the opening season for fishing at the sacred fishing ground, which was preserved for the last 12 years.
Thousands of people will converge in Tubou Village on Lakeba Island to witness the installation of the new Tui Lau.
Tubou Village Headman, Waqavonovono Temo says preparations are underway with different clans and villages joining hands for this historic occasion.
He says one of their main challenges was water, but now, the team from the Water Authority of Fiji has managed to connect it to a water source.
The ceremony for the installation of the Tui Nayau Sau ni Vanua o Lau will be held next Tuesday, while the installation ceremony of the Tui Lau will be held in Tubou next Thursday.
We will provide live coverage of the two installation ceremonies on our website, facebook and YouTube pages, fijivillage and VITIFM.
