By James Wilkinson on Denarau Island, Fiji
Fiji’s Momi Bay resort is set to recommence constriction in early 2014, according to the Fijian Government.
Speaking exclusively to HM on camera at the opening of stage three at the Wyndham Resort Fiji Denarau Island this week (Oct 22), Fiji’s Attorney General and Tourism Minister, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, said a ground-breaking at the Coral Coast project would happen in the first quarter of 2014.
The resort, owned by the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) since the Fijian Government took sole ownership in 2010 following the collapse of New Zealand-based Bridgecorp in 2007, was originally proposed to be branded as a J.W Marriott hotel.
The FNPF was significantly exposed in the original project to the tune of over FJD$60 million and in 2012, the Fijian Prime Minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama – who officiated at the Wyndham event this week – announced a FJD$150 million investment from the Fijian Government to ensure the project’s completion.
“A lot of people have been waiting with bated breath to ensure that it does happen and it is a project that could get to the size of Denarau if not bigger,” Sayed-Khaiyum told HM.
Marriott declined to comment on the project when contacted by HM.
In the interview, Sayed-Khaiyum also spoke about the proposed casino development that’s currently stalled and much more.
To view the exclusive interview, click on the YouTube image above.
HM flew to Nadi with Fiji Airways. The former Air Pacific has a new name and a new fleet of Airbus A330-200 aircraft, which operate to Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and the United States from Fiji. The airline also operates flights across the Pacific –primarily on next-generation Boeing 737s – and on each flight you can expect friendly Fijian hospitality, good-quality meals and beverages. For bookings, visit www.fijiairways.com