HM can reveal Marriott International has signed a long-awaited agreement with the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNP) to manage the 250-key Fiji Marriott Resort at Momi Bay, scheduled to open in 2016.
HM exclusively revealed on October 24, 2013, the project was set to recommence in 2014 under the ownership of the FNP.
At that time, Fiji’s Attorney General and Tourism Minister, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, told HM 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 at the time.
The Fiji Marriott Resort at Momi Bay is situated between Fiji’s two most popular resort areas, Denarau and the Coral Coast, approximately 40 minutes from Nadi International Airport.
James Doolan, Vice President Hotel Development – Asia Pacific of Marriott International told HM today (Apr 2) he was thrilled the project was coming to fruition.
“Marriott International is most grateful to Fiji National Provident Fund for granting us the opportunity to manage this exciting resort project,” he said.
“With its picturesque tropical beaches and friendly people, Fiji has a strong appeal to leisure travellers from Australia and New Zealand, as well as long haul source markets of US, Continental Europe and Asia.
“Therefore it is essential for Marriott International to make a presence in this strategic destination on a high note.
“Marriott Hotels is the original and iconic brand within the Marriott International portfolio of hotel brands. We are currently on a journey to transform this brand and reassert its market leadership. The Fiji Marriott Resort at Momi Bay has all the features we envisage for the new Marriott Hotels brand,” Doolan said.
The Fiji Marriott Resort at Momi Bay offers 114 free-standing bures and 136 standard rooms. The bures, in which 22 of them are overwater ones, are unique in the market. Half of the 136 standard rooms will be in connecting pairs which make them the ideal accommodation choice for big families.
The resort is going to offer four signature food and beverage outlets that bring culinary delights to its guest: Goji Kitchen is an innovative outlet that has a main as well as “micro concept” restaurant. It will feature Indian and Asian cuisine; An ocean-side seafood restaurant and bar that is poised to impress guests with an indigenous-inspired experience; A versatile pool grill and bar that offers Italian and Mediterranean cuisine; The resort’s Great Room Bar serves breakfast in the morning and evolves into the evening focal point, serving craft beer, innovative cocktails and hosting wine tastings as the workday closes. Locally sourced ingredients and region-specific menu items give guests a sense and taste of place.
The resort has a 360 square meter function room that is divisible by three, as well as a 90 square meter meeting room that can divided into two. It also features a 40-seat celebration pavilion for staging wedding ceremonies.
The Fiji Marriott Resort at Momi Bay has a full array of recreational facilities in store for adults, teens and kids. These include two swimming pools, a 120 square meter fitness center, a spa with eight treatment rooms, kids’ club, recreation center, water activities center and two tennis courts.
Other facilities and amenities include gift shops, business center, tour/excursion activities center, clinic, laundry and valet, parking service, early arrival/late department lounge and produce farm.