Rakiraki is expected to become another Denarau over the next few years as major tourism developments transform the area, Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka told Parliament on Tuesday.
Mr Gavoka said significant investments were taking place in rural and maritime areas, with new luxury resorts expected to boost tourism and economic activity outside traditional tourism centres.
“When you visit Rakiraki today, you will be amazed at what is happening there. Rakiraki over the next couple of years will be another Denarau,” he said.
He highlighted developments in Duadua, Volivoli and the former Wananavu resort site, which he said were being developed into five-star hotels.
Mr Gavoka said tourism development was also expanding into Koro, Vanua Levu and the Lau Group, although transport connectivity remained a major challenge.
“The Lau Group is also coming up however, the challenge is connectivity. We are looking at upgrading the airports to make that happen.”
He said about seven major tourism projects were ready or nearing completion, while further developments were being discussed.
“As I speak, there are about seven major projects that are ready or near completion. If you go to the Western Division today via road, you can see it happening.”
Mr Gavoka said there were currently 57 tourism projects, with another 47 under discussion for development.
He projected that Fiji could see between 80 and 90 tourism projects over the coming years.
“Moving forward, we could be looking at close to 80 projects or 90 projects in tourism over the coming years and it is uplifting the economy right now.”
He said tourism continued to drive economic growth, with visitor arrivals expected to exceed one million this year.
Mr Gavoka acknowledged that approximately 75 per cent of tourism activity was currently concentrated in Ba, Nadroga and Navosa, but said developments outside these areas would spread economic benefits to other parts of Fiji.
“Tourism is driving a lot of this and the way it is developing will continue to be the mainstay of our business moving forward.”
