Malaita Province Malaita Province Malaita Province is one of the largest of the nine provinces of Solomon Islands. It is named after its largest island, Malaita (also known as "Big Malaita" or "Maramapaina"). Other islands include South Malaita Island (also called "Small Malaita" or "Maramasike"), Sikaiana Island, and Ontong Java Atoll. Britain defined its area of interest in the Solomons, including Malaita, and central government control of Malaita began in 1893, when Captain Gibson R.N., of , declared the southern Solomon Islands as a British Protectorate with the proclamation of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate. The provincial capital and largest urban center
Choiseul Province Taro Island. The largest reptile is the saltwater crocodile ("Crocodylus porosus") known from Australia. Known birds are the Sanford's fish eagle ("Haliaeetus sanfordi"), the Pacific black duck ("Anas superciliosa"), and the eastern reef egret ("Egretta sacra"). Until the beginning of the 20th century, it was the only habitat of the now extinct Choiseul crested pigeon ("Microgoura meeki"). Choiseul is also an important breeding place for the loggerhead sea turtle ("Caretta caretta"). The flora is represented by mangroves and coconuts. Commercial logging continues to operate in Choiseul throughout the entire province. Nickel Mining is planned to commence in 2016 in Katupika