Measuring 20 cm (7.9 in), it has bright red underparts and face with a purple crown and greenish upperparts.

[2] It was moved to the genus Vini based on a molecular phylogenetic study of the lorikeets published in 2020.

[6] The bird was prized throughout western Polynesia for its vibrant plumage and the maritime trading networks based on "kula" feathers existed between Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga up until colonial times.

[8] While the species is today restricted to Fiji, fossil evidence shows that it once occurred in Tonga as well, and was extirpated by early human settlers.

[10] The collared lory is a fast and straight flyer with quick shallow wingbeats, and can be found in pairs or small groups.

The species became tame readily in captivity but early attempts to keep birds alive proved difficult.

[13] This species was first bred in the UK (1941)by the Marquess of Tavistock (later the 12th Duke of Bedford) for which he was awarded a commemorative medal by the Foreign Bird League.