The first stage of an integrated tourism development is now underway on the Tavarau waterfront between Lautoka City and Ba Town, marking the first major upmarket residential district along this traditionally agricultural stretch.
Development company, Tuvu Bay International Resort Limited is constructing a series of 14 cosmopolitan-designed, double-story villas to maximise the views and offer a new residential setting outside the tourist precincts and CBDs of Fiji’s Western division.
“Turn left instead of right, is what I'm hoping will be on people's minds as they leave the airport,” said Managing Director, Mike Gepp.
“We are currently working on fourteen houses that will be perching on the cliff edge and facing out to see. The water is literally a stone’s throw, from the terrace of each house.
These houses are very special with sensual styling with all the features to withstand cyclonic seasons. The construction is solid tilt up concrete. Every stage of their construction will ensure their strength and durability.”
These residences will entail 3-bedrooms, two bathrooms and three washrooms each.
“To maximise the views and the connectivity to the bay there will be two big decks on the two levels. The lower deck will have a built-in plunge pool. There will be a place for a backup generator and large underground water storage,” Gepp added.
“Value for money will also be the theme throughout the whole complex. In fact, some of our houses will sell for the around the same as some land only deals in other parts of Fiji.
Looking ahead we plan to build a mixture of homes from one to four bedrooms. We will even entertain a buyer’s own design as long as it fits in with our general standards of build and design.”
The site straddles the Kings Rd and sits 20 minutes from Lautoka, with a further 20 minutes providing proximity to Fiji’s main international airport in Nadi.
“The closeness to Lautoka, and to a lesser degree Ba town will give both the owner occupiers and tourists the opportunity to pop into town if they want.
Gepp said the site offers one of the best views in the country, particularly along the Kings Rd highway that wraps much of the Western coast of Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island.
“If it is not the best, then it will do until another like it comes along. This fabulous situation will only improve as we develop. Even the bay is beautiful and due to its calm waters and light winds will ensure that it becomes possibly the premier water sports base in Fiji.
Tuvu is protected from the trade winds and also sees the lowest rainfall on the mainland.”
The site is spread over 70 acres under a tourism and hotel zone. With a Crown title, the second stage of development will entail a hotel site, restaurants, apartment buildings and pub, with Gepp noting that while they will market worldwide, they expect the local market to constitute the bulk of buyers.
Born in England, the developer has worked in New Zealand, Australia and Britain building in the vernacular styles of these countries, leading to the creating of his own style.
He purchased the development site 16 years ago.