Support Fijians by travelling to islands

SUPPORT: An operator from Navita Resort. PHOTO: RENEE CLAYTON

An information night informing the public on the ins and outs of travelling to Fiji has reassured people the island is still a safe place to visit.

The event was held last week at Distinction Hotel and House of Travel's Stephen Parsons encouraged locals to support Fiji in their recovery.

He gave firsthand information on current destinations from resort operators.

Tourism Fiji's regional director Wayne Deed was also present and said people should continue to choose Fiji as their travel destination.

"Kiwis visiting Fiji is the best way to help the island get back on its feet - 95 per cent of tourism infrastructure is back up and running, including popular places such as Denarau and Mananca.

"Last year visitor arrivals were 139,000 which was up by 12 per cent from 2014. We want that to continue."

Locals said they were pleased to receive the information and were glad to be able to speak to Fijians about what is happening.

Liz Chandler said the event had changed her perception of Fiji.

"It was a good opportunity to connect with the locals and see how it is going over there. It seems a lot more relaxed and easy-going than I thought."

Mr Parsons said one of the main ideas of the event was to re-educate locals on the current situation.

"We are contributing to the recovery of Fiji's outer islands in a number of different ways and this information evening is our way of supporting Fiji's main islands."

The store is providing an emergency response kit to Fiji through the Rotary Club of Palmerston North, alongside donations to the Eastern Maritime Islands of Fiji.

The kit includes a number of essential supplies including toiletries and medicine, clothing, tools, cooking utensils and blankets.

The House of Travel Group has also stocked a number of yachts with essential items to be transported Makogai, Koro and Yadua Islands.