Mamanuca Islands, Fiji
In the Fijian Islands, life’s a beach for Scott Walton and family.
What do you do there? How does the cost of living compare to New Zealand?
The first time I moved to Fiji was to work in the islands, leaving a cold blustery winter in New Zealand for hot tropical sun, white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters. This is the third time I have worked in Fiji. My current role is group general manager for Treasure and Bounty Island Resorts.
What do you like or dislike about life in Fiji?
What’s not to love? The people are truly memorable; the beautiful days and the ever-changing activities plus all the new faces that I get to see as they pass through the resort.
Comparatively once you convert to Fijian dollars the cost of living is a little more affordable here. Access to cheap fantastic produce is a real bonus. A quick trip to the market can see your pantry and fridge full of wonderful veges and fruit at a fraction of the cost of New Zealand or Australia.
What do you do on weekends?
Weekends I spend with my family exploring Fiji. On rare occasions I try to get out on the golf course, however a four and a six-year-old generally dictate if that’s possible.
What do you think of the food?
Food in Fiji is going through a huge transformation. My favourite food here is from a little vegetarian curry house in Lautoka where they prepare the most delicious small roti wraps for F$1.50 (NZ$1) of okra, potato or eggplant curries – or a mixture of all. I find renting a car to get around Fiji is by far the best. However, there is a vast network of boats, buses and taxis that are readily available.
What’s the shopping like?
Most resorts have great souvenir shops as part of their complexes and Suva has some excellent shopping. We are based on the Nadi side and between Lautoka and Nadi you can find pretty much anything. Both offer great options for finding local products and souvenirs.
What’s the nightlife like?
If we’re out in the evenings, it’s usually at Port Denarau. There are a heap of new bars in Martintar (Nadi), plus some old favourites. I think that all ages can find something suitable.
What is your favourite thing to do in Fiji?
At the moment it’s teaching my kids to swim. Charlotte is already a fish in the water and Oliver is taking daring steps each day. As soon as he gets past the fact that he thinks he’s invincible in the water, we should start to make some real progress that won’t give Kate and me a heart attack.