Nakama hot springs water from the geothermally heated pools which can reaches close to 100 degrees Celsius, have been used by local villagers for centuries to cook taro, breadfruit and other local foods. On August 2, 2022 the geothermal pools become an official tourist attraction. A F$75,000 project orchestrated by the Blue Town Committee and promoted by the Savusavu Tourism Association refurbished Nakama hot spring with landscaping, stone walls, signage, steps and drains around the springs. Locals are still permitted to cook their food on the premises and even sell prepared dishes. Most land in Fiji is owned by native land owners – the mataqali (extended family unit). Savusavu and surrounding areas has a large amount of freehold land, much of it once used as coconut plantations. Increasingly this land has been subdivided and sold, often to expats seeking a retirement or holiday home. As a result, Savusavu is now home to a small but significant community of Americans, Australians, New Zealanders and Europeans which has helped fuel its economic development. Politics Incorporated as a town in 1969, Savusavu is governed by a 9-member town council, elected for a three-year term. The councillors elect a mayor from among themselves for a one-year term, which may be renewed any number of times. Following the victory of the Savusavu Ratepayers and Citizens Party in the municipal elections held on 22 October 2005, Ram Pillay was chosen as mayor, succeeding Peni Naulu of the Lighthouse Party. In 2009, the Military-backed interim government dismissed all municipal governments throughout Fiji and appointed special administrators to run the urban areas. As of 2015, elected municipal government has not been restored. The special administrator of Savusavu, along with nearby Labasa, is Vijay Chand. References External links Savusavu Hotel Guide Savusavu Tourism Association FIJI FACTS AND FIGURES AS AT 1ST JULY 2008 Amazing Facts "Fiji Sings!" website - 12 short films about music and dance in the Savusavu area Cakaudrove Province Populated places in Fiji Vanua Levu