The Fiji Platform lies in a zone bordered by active extension fault lines, around which most of the shallow earthquakes in the area have been centred.

[2][3] Viti Levu is the largest island in the Republic of Fiji – home to 70% of the population (about 600,000 people) – and is the hub of the entire Fijian archipelago.

Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions account for the somewhat rugged terrain of the island, which is divided into roughly equal halves by a mountain range that runs north to south.

The eastern side of the island experiences heavy rainfall, particularly in the mountains, and is home to Fiji's tropical moist forests.

The western side (colloquially called the "burning west") is in the mountain range's rain shadow and is noticeably drier; it is home to Fiji's tropical dry forests.

It is estimated that the compound effects of sea level rise and storm surge may result in a temporary relocation of a relatively high numbers of the inhabitants of Viti Levu, predominantly the northern and western parts, with an exposure of up to 6.75% of the islands' population in the future.

According to oral tradition, the first Melanesian settlers landed at Vuda Point and established Viseisei as Fiji's first oldest settlement.

Ferry service, provided by the Patterson Brothers Shipping Company, connects Viti Levu to the rest of the islands.