The Shout Magazine (New Zealand)

Fresh expansion for Fijian ‘old-world colonial oasis’

Fresh expansion for Fijian ‘old-world colonial oasis’

Fiji Gateway Hotel is expanding its offerings with the construction of a new two-storey accommodation building, designed to cater to the increasing demand from travellers transiting through Nadi.

The expansion project, starting this month, is expected to be completed by October 2025.

The development will add 47 new guest rooms and suites, including 44 Deluxe Rooms and three Two-Bedroom Suites, all offering rural views. They will feature a King bed and a fold-out sofa, making them ideal for ‘bleisure’ travellers, while the Two-Bedroom Suites, equipped with two Queen beds, will provide ample space for families, corporate guests and conference attendees.

High Occupancy

Lee Pearce, CEO of Raffe Hotels and Resorts, the parent company of Fiji Gateway Hotel, said it has consistently operated at high occupancy.

“With surging demand and record visitor numbers for Fiji, we recognised the need to expand our inventory. Our strategic location and tropical aesthetic make us a top choice for travellers, particularly those visiting the group’s other properties, Plantation Island Resort and Lomani Island Resort in the Mamanucas Islands. Thanks to Raffe Group’s commitment to Fiji tourism, we’re excited to bring these new rooms to life by mid-spring 2025.”

The new building will be strategically located on an unused section of the property, ensuring minimal disruption to the hotel’s existing character and guest experience. The expansion will see the hotel grow from 95 to 135 rooms next year, with plans to decommission several older rooms as part of this contemporary update.

Following the completion of the new block, some older outdated rooms will be removed to allow for fresh landscaping and new pathways, seamlessly connecting the new rooms with the hotel’s main reception and dining areas.

Investor Confidence

“Fiji has experienced a surge in visitor numbers in recent years, continuing its remarkable growth into 2024, with further increases in key months such as June and July. This growth underscores Fiji’s enduring appeal as a premier travel destination, making the timing of our expansion at Fiji Gateway Hotel particularly significant,” Mr Pearce said,

“Growth in Fiji’s tourism sector has also led to increased investor confidence, driving projects like the hotel’s expansion, which in turn contributes positively to the local economy and supports the broader tourism industry that so many in our community rely upon.”

Since opening its doors in 1969, Fiji Gateway Hotel has been a landmark in Fijian hospitality, known for its prime location opposite Nadi International Airport. This latest transformation underscores the hotel’s resilience and ongoing commitment to delivering high standards of service and value, while embodying the authentic “Bula Spirit” that is the essence of Fijian hospitality.

Often described as an ‘old-world colonial oasis,’ the hotel boasts two swimming pools, a tennis court, a gymnasium, conference facilities, a boutique store, a mini day-spa, a restaurant, a bar, and even a casual poolside café for morning bites and coffee. Its greatest asset, however, remains its unbeatable location directly across the road from Fiji’s busiest airport and just 8 km from Nadi town.

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