Nanuku Resort & Spa, Fiji, Ocean View Residence Villas .. and resort facilities
A new luxury resort near Pacific Harbour quietly held a soft opening on the weekend, bringing an all-villa concept within an easy drive from the capital.
Nanuku Resort and Spa has been developed on the site of what was the former Taunovo Bay Resort near Pacific Harbour.
It features six big residences, five beachfronts on Beqa Lagoon and one on a volcanic outcrop looking out on to the Beqa Lagoon.
General manager Karen Taylor, who brings vast experience in operating such small luxury resorts, said yesterday of the soft opening, “A pop up market with local foods featured in bamboos and also natural leaf plates were served by our staff during the soft opening.
“Our staff also performed the fire walking and meke for the international guests from around the world, attending the Moneywise conference for Flight Centre.
“Moneywise held an international conference for Flight Centre and booked the resort out for their exclusive use.
“They kindly gave the team a 10/10 across all their experiences, and said it was their best conference, ever,” she said.
The official opening is scheduled for April when the private Chicago owner visits the resort.
About the resort
Ms Taylor noted the resort would be exclusive only for in- house guests and is not open to walk in visitors.
“We are the first inclusive, all luxury resort in Fiji on the mainland with all villa residences that accommodate from two to 18 guests. Each villa has its own private garden, pool and beachfront.
“Our amenities include spa and wellness centre with gym, spa on the beach, swim up pool bar, free wireless internet.
“As well as care support for all young children or those with special needs and creative workshop.
“We are the first to say, luxury, adventure and culture… and to deliver a unique bespoke experience including adventure and food safaris into the local hinterland.”
Each residence includes more than one suite or villa and these can be taken separately or combined for larger groups.
The resort’s Lomana day spa has indoor and al fresco treatment pavillions.
An overseas travel writer who was among guests at the resort, Christine McCabe, of The Australian newspaper, says, “Huge, air-conditioned living and entertaining areas are complemented by luxurious en suites with spa baths, while outdoors the private landscaped gardens feature expansive decking and comfy day beds.
“With all villas offering full board, executive chef, Walther Whippy, is charged with turning out zinging-fresh “Pacific Cuisine” featuring local seafood, organic garden produce and the best imported meats.
“Guests may take their meals in the resort’s Club House bar and restaurant with its pool and lagoon views, dine in-villa or tee up a special off-piste meal in a variety of locations, including the resort’s own private island.”
Target market
Ms Taylor said their target market would be those who are discerning, active and adventure seekers.
“Multi-generational groups who have a wide range of needs to be catered for, people who want an authentic and genuine experience.
“We cater for those who may also need a private space and time, and want to feel valued and cared for without compromise.”
Local staff
The resort staff is mainly made up of locals.
She said: “The resort has 80 staff working in the spa, gym, kitchen, maintenance, landscaping, front office and administration, boutique, creative workshop, activities and housekeeping.
“All staff in operations are part of our guest services team that are multi-skilled and trained to know all aspects of the resort.
“All of them are local residents of Fiji while some have come to Nanuku to work with me from previous roles in other parts of Fiji,” she added.