Rehabilitating Queens Wharf to strengthen port infrastructure and support long‑term operations in the Port of Lautoka

Queens Wharf Rehabilitation

Queens Wharf in the Port of Lautoka is one of Fiji’s busiest gateways for imports and exports. Built in 1959 and later extended in 2005, the wharf had suffered decades of wear, chloride ingress, and repairs completed over time with limited documentation. When Fiji Ports Corporation set out to restore this critical asset, they asked us to help.

We led the design of the repair works and served as engineer to the contract, working closely with Fiji Ports and Marine and Civil Maintenance. Our team assessed the condition of both the original and newer structures, often uncovering steel reinforcement and previous repairs that differed from old drawings. This required us to be adaptable in our approach and work in close collaboration to confirm details and keep the project moving.

A major challenge for this project was completing the work while the port remained fully operational. Together with key parties, we helped develop repair staging that protected safety, supported port throughput, and met the project’s expanded scope following delays from the COVID‑19 pandemic.

Rehabilitation efforts included concrete and steel pile repairs, supported by innovative techniques. Fiji Ports Corporation Limited was eager to adopt new technology to improve durability including the GreenTech Shield chloride extraction system, which extends the life of concrete in marine environments.

We also delivered strengthening works at the nearby Lautoka Local Wharf, where our investigations revealed cracking in key beams caused by the wharf now supporting much heavier machinery and barge ramp landings than in its original design. We designed a carbon fibre reinforced polymer solution that provides durable, long‑term strength in harsh marine conditions.

Through teamwork, practical design, and a willingness to adapt, Fiji Ports Corporation’s dedication maintaining and improving this asset has restored safe and reliable wharf operations in Lautoka, a critical part of Fiji’s port network.