YWAM Ships Aotearoa recently experienced one of the most significant moments in our ministry’s history.

After completing a major five-year survey and refit in New Zealand, MV YWAM KOHA has returned to Fiji—ready to begin another season of bringing health, hope and practical assistance to some of the Pacific’s most isolated communities.

But before our first outreach even began, Fiji reminded us once again why this nation has become such an important partner in our mission.

This week was marked by extraordinary expressions of partnership, honour and shared vision that demonstrate what can happen when government, communities and faith-based organisations work together for the wellbeing of people.

Welcomed at State House

On Wednesday 1 July, we had the profound honour of being welcomed by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Fiji, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, at State House.

Five years ago, the Government of Fiji invited YWAM Ships Aotearoa to partner with the nation in serving remote maritime communities. Since then, together we have delivered more than 80,000 health services to over 14,000 Fijians living in isolated islands and villages.

Meeting with His Excellency was far more than a formal courtesy. It was a moment to reflect on what has been accomplished together and to reaffirm our shared commitment to improving health and wellbeing throughout Fiji’s maritime regions.

We remain deeply grateful for the trust the government and people of Fiji have placed in our organisation.

Welcoming National Leaders Aboard

The weeks significance continued on the Thursday evening as we hosted the Honourable Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, alongside Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, senior government officials and key national partners aboard MV YWAM KOHA while she was berthed in Suva Harbour.

Key guests included the Honourable Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka; Hon. Ioane Naivalurua, Minister of Policing and Communications and Patron of YWAM Ships; Ratu Sanaila Madanavosa, Roko Tui Suva; Mr Rusiate Tudravu, Commissioner of Police; Hon. Sashi Kiran, Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection; Hon. Tomasi Tunabuna, Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry; Ms Rachel Bennett, Counsellor at the New Zealand High Commission in Fiji; and Hon. Naisa Tuinaceva, Assistant Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport.

For many guests, this was their first opportunity to tour the vessel, meet our volunteer crew, and gain a first-hand understanding of how the ship operates as a floating health platform serving

communities that are often beyond the reach of traditional healthcare services.

The evening celebrated not only the work already accomplished, but also the partnerships that make this mission possible.

YWAM Ships Aotearoa has always believed that lasting impact is created through collaboration. Our work is only possible because governments, health professionals, volunteers, churches, donors and local communities choose to work together towards a common vision.

Preparing for the First Outreach of 2026

These celebrations came at an exciting time.

This past weekend, the MV YWAM KOHA departed Suva Harbour to begin the first outreach of the 2026 season.

Our first destination is Somosomo, His Excellency the President of Fiji’s home village, on the island of Taveuni. The village is pictured at left, viewed from the bridge of our medical ship. It is there that our volunteer teams will launch our first ship outreach of 2026, providing free health services alongside local partners and health workers.

Throughout the coming months, the ship will continue serving isolated islands across Fiji, delivering primary healthcare, dental care, health education and community development initiatives to communities that have limited access to essential services.

More Than a Ship

MV YWAM KOHA is more than a ship: it represents something much greater.

It represents thousands of generous supporters who have invested financially. It represents volunteers from around the world who have given months — and sometimes years — of their lives to serve others.

It represents health professionals who freely share their skills. It represents churches praying faithfully. And it represents the remarkable partnership that has developed between YWAM Ships Aotearoa and the people and Government of Fiji.

Every outreach reminds us that sustainable transformation happens through partnership. Together, we are empowering healthier futures across the Pacific.

Looking Ahead

As we cast off for another season of outreach, we do so with immense gratitude.

We are thankful to the Government of Fiji for its continued partnership and encouragement.

We are thankful to our many supporters whose generosity makes this work possible.

Most importantly, we thank God for His faithful provision and guidance over the past five years.

We look forward with great expectation to all that lies ahead as we continue serving the people of Fiji — one island, one village and one life at a time.