Nausori, Fiji
Region: Central
Geographic Coordinates: -18.024400, 178.545000
Population: 57882
Language: Fijian
Nausori is a vibrant town located on the eastern side of Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island. Situated just 20 kilometers northeast of Suva, The capital city, Nausori serves as an important transportation hub and commercial center for the region. Despite its relatively small size, This bustling town offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, Natural beauty, And modern amenities that make it an intriguing destination to explore. One of Nausori’s main attractions is its lively marketplace.
Known as Nausori Market or Veiwasa, It is a vibrant hub where locals gather to sell and purchase fresh produce, Seafood, Handicrafts, Clothing, And various other items. The market provides visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in Fijian culture while sampling local delicacies such as tropical fruits like papaya and pineapples. For those seeking outdoor adventures near Nausori, Colo-i-Suva Forest Park presents an ideal escape. Just a short drive from the town center lies this pristine rainforest reserve offering nature trails that wind through lush vegetation and lead to stunning waterfalls and swimming holes.
Nature enthusiasts can revel in birdwatching opportunities or take refreshing dips beneath cascading waterfalls surrounded by serene tranquility. History buffs will find intrigue in exploring Nausori’s historical sites such as Ratu Kadavulevu School (RKS), One of Fiji’s most prestigious educational institutions founded in 1923 by paramount chief Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna. This renowned boarding school has produced numerous influential figures who have contributed significantly to Fiji’s development. Moreover, Nearby Rewa Delta provides visitors with insights into traditional Fijian village life.
The delta is home to several villages where visitors can experience authentic Fijian hospitality through homestays or guided tours that showcase customary practices like kava ceremonies and meke dances performed by locals adorned in traditional attire. Nestled within Nausori is the iconic Ratu Cakobau Park, A multipurpose venue that hosts various sporting events, Cultural festivals, And concerts throughout the year. Named after Fiji’s first modern statesman and paramount chief, Ratu Seru Epenisa Cakobau, This park serves as a significant gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Nausori’s strategic location allows easy access to other popular destinations in Fiji.
Visitors can take short day trips to Suva to explore its museums, Colonial architecture, And bustling waterfront. Alternatively, They can venture further afield to discover pristine white sand beaches along the Coral Coast or embark on thrilling diving expeditions in the nearby Beqa Lagoon. Nausori offers an array of experiences that cater to diverse interests. From its bustling marketplaces and historical sites to its natural wonders and proximity to other attractions in Fiji, This town provides an enriching experience for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Fijian culture while enjoying modern amenities.
- Nausori Highlands: This scenic area offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including lush green hills and valleys. It’s a great spot for hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying nature.
- Colo-i-Suva Forest Park: Located just outside Nausori, this park is known for its tranquil rainforest setting and beautiful waterfalls. Visitors can go on nature walks, birdwatching tours or take a refreshing swim in the natural pools.
- Korovou Town: A short drive from Nausori lies Korovou Town, which offers an authentic Fijian experience with local markets selling fresh produce and handicrafts made by villagers.
- Rewa River: The Rewa River is one of Fiji’s longest rivers and flows through Nausori before reaching the ocean at Suva. Boat trips along the river offer opportunities to observe wildlife like crocodiles and birds while experiencing traditional Fijian village life.
- Thurston Gardens: Located in Suva (about 20 minutes from Nausori), these botanical gardens are worth visiting for their variety of tropical plants and trees as well as their historical significance.
- Shopping at MHCC Mall: If you’re looking for modern amenities or want to do some shopping during your visit to Nausori, MHCC Mall in Suva is a popular destination with various stores offering clothing, electronics, souvenirs, and more.
While these attractions may require traveling outside of Nausori itself or exploring nearby towns like Suva or Korovou Towns; they offer visitors an opportunity to experience the beauty of Fiji’s landscapes and immerse themselves in the local culture.
- Tourism: Nausori is located near the capital city of Suva and serves as a gateway to various tourist attractions in Fiji. The tourism industry plays a significant role in the local economy, with hotels, resorts, tour operators, and related businesses thriving.
- Agriculture: Nausori is surrounded by fertile agricultural land where crops like sugarcane, taro, cassava, vegetables, and fruits are grown. There are also dairy farms and poultry farms in the area.
- Manufacturing: Several manufacturing industries operate in Nausori, including food processing companies that produce items like canned fish or fruit juices. Additionally, there are textile factories producing garments for export.
- Retail and Wholesale Trade: As a commercial hub for the surrounding regions of Rewa Province and Tailevu Province, Nausori has numerous retail shops ranging from small local stores to larger supermarkets serving both locals and tourists.
- Construction: With ongoing development projects across Fiji, including infrastructure improvements or building constructions such as residential complexes or commercial buildings; construction companies play an important role in Nausori’s economy.
- Education: There are several educational institutions located within or near Nausori city limits which contribute to its economy through employment opportunities for teachers/staff members as well as attracting students from other areas.
- Government Services: Being close to Suva (the capital), many government offices have branches or facilities in Nausori providing services such as health care centers/hospitals or administrative services.
- Transportation Services: The region’s transportation sector includes taxi services; bus companies operating intercity routes connecting nearby towns/villages with Suva; freight forwarding/courier companies facilitating trade between different locations domestically/internationally.
- Banking & Finance: Banks/financial institutions have branches within the city offering various financial services such as loans/deposits, foreign exchange, etc.
- Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Nausori has a vibrant small business sector with various enterprises like restaurants, cafes, bakeries, shops, and services catering to the local population and visitors.
It is important to note that while these industries are prominent in Nausori, the city also benefits from its proximity to Suva where additional industries and businesses exist.
- Battle of Kaba: In 1876, Nausori witnessed the Battle of Kaba, a significant conflict during Fiji’s history. It took place between Seru Epenisa Cakobau, who sought to reunify Fiji under his leadership, and rebel forces led by Ratu Kadavulevu.
- Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna: Born in Nakelo near Nausori in 1888, Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna was a prominent Fijian statesman and military leader. He played a crucial role in shaping modern Fiji as one of its founding fathers and was instrumental in establishing indigenous Fijian representation within colonial governance structures.
- Rewa Confederacy: The town of Nausori lies within the traditional territory of the Rewa Confederacy—a powerful Fijian chiefdom that historically held considerable influence over Viti Levu’s eastern regions.
- Bau Island: Located nearby is Bau Island, historically significant as it was once home to Fiji’s paramount chiefly dynasty—the TuiKaba clan—who ruled over much of present-day central Fiji from their stronghold on this island.
- Colonial era developments: During British colonial rule (1874-1970), Nausori served as an administrative center for the surrounding areas but did not witness any major historical events during this period.
It is worth noting that while these events and individuals are associated with the broader region around Nausori rather than specifically with the town itself, they contribute significantly to understanding its historical context within Fiji’s larger narrative.
- Fiji Museum (Suva) – Located in the capital city of Suva, the Fiji Museum showcases the history and cultural heritage of the islands through various exhibits.
- Thurston Gardens (Suva) – Adjacent to the Fiji Museum, these beautiful botanical gardens feature lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and walking paths.
- Colo-i-Suva Forest Park (Nasinu) – A short drive from Nausori lies this stunning rainforest reserve offering scenic hiking trails with waterfalls and swimming spots.
- Parliament of Fiji (Suva) – Visitors can take guided tours to explore the iconic parliament building while learning about Fijian politics and governance.
- Mariamma Temple (Nasinu) – A significant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Mariamman featuring intricate architecture and vibrant religious ceremonies.
- Suva Municipal Market (Suva) – This bustling market is ideal for experiencing local culture, trying fresh produce or street food while interacting with friendly vendors.
- Sacred Heart Cathedral (Suva) – The largest Catholic cathedral in Fiji boasts impressive Gothic-style architecture with beautiful stained glass windows.
- Albert Park (Suva) – A historic sports ground that hosts various events including rugby matches and festivals throughout the year.
- Pure Fiji Factory Boutique (Lami Town) – Visitors can witness how natural skincare products are made at this factory outlet store while indulging in shopping for unique Fijian beauty products.
- Colo-i-Suva Eco Resort & Rainforest Spa (Nasinu) – If you’re looking for a tranquil retreat amidst nature, this eco-resort offers accommodation options along with spa treatments surrounded by rainforest scenery.
Please note that some of these attractions are located in Suva, which is nearby Nausori and easily accessible.
- Nausori Highlanders Rugby Club: The Nausori Highlanders is a local rugby club that has been active for many years. They participate in local rugby competitions and have a dedicated following within the community.
- Rewa Football Club: Although not based specifically in Nausori, Rewa FC is one of the most successful football (soccer) clubs in Fiji and represents the wider Rewa province, which includes Nausori town. They have won numerous national championships and are known for producing talented players.
- Tailevu Knights Rugby League Club: The Tailevu Knights is a rugby league club representing the wider Tailevu region, which encompasses areas including Nausori town. They compete in various domestic rugby league competitions and have had success at different levels.
- Navua Netball Association: While not strictly a team, the Navua Netball Association organizes netball competitions involving teams from different communities around Viti Levu, including those near Nausori.
- Various cricket clubs: Cricket is also popular in Fiji, with several cricket clubs participating in local leagues around Viti Levu’s central region, including areas close to Nausori.
It’s important to note that these examples may not exclusively represent teams solely from Nausori but rather include nearby regions as well due to limited information available specifically about sports teams solely based within the town itself.
- Hibiscus Festival: This annual festival takes place in nearby Suva, usually during August. It is one of Fiji’s biggest cultural events featuring various activities such as beauty pageants, parades, live music performances, food stalls, and traditional dance competitions.
- Diwali: Celebrated by the Indo-Fijian community in October or November (dates vary based on the Hindu lunar calendar), Diwali is known as the Festival of Lights. It involves lighting diyas (oil lamps), setting off fireworks, exchanging sweets, wearing new clothes, and decorating homes with colorful rangoli patterns.
- Christmas: Like many other places around the world with Christian populations, Christmas is celebrated in Nausori with religious services at churches and festive gatherings with family and friends.
- Independence Day: Fiji celebrates its independence from British colonial rule on October 10th each year. The day often includes flag-raising ceremonies at government buildings along with parades showcasing Fijian culture.
- International Food Festival: Occasionally held in Nausori or nearby towns like Nasinu or Lami Bay area during different times of the year where locals showcase their culinary skills by offering various international cuisines for visitors to enjoy.
It’s worth noting that while these events may not be specific to Nausori itself since it is a smaller town; they do occur within close proximity to it and can be easily accessed by residents of Nausori for participation or attendance purposes.
- Kokoda: A traditional Fijian dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, coconut milk, onions, and chilies.
- Lovo: A feast cooked underground involving marinated meat (usually pork or chicken), seafood, root vegetables, and taro leaves.
- Rourou: A Fijian dish made with taro leaves cooked in coconut milk.
- Duruka: Also known as Fijian asparagus, it is a seasonal vegetable often stir-fried or used in curries.
- Cassava Cake: A sweet dessert made from grated cassava mixed with coconut milk and baked to perfection.
Some popular restaurants in Nausori where you can enjoy these local delicacies include:
- The Hot Bread Kitchen: Known for its fresh bakery items like roti wraps and sandwiches along with some Fijian specialties.
- Singh’s Curry House: Offers a variety of Indian-Fijian dishes including curries, rotis, biryanis, and Indo-Chinese fusion cuisine.
- Daikoku Restaurant & Bar: Known for its Japanese cuisine including sushi rolls, sashimi platters, teppanyaki dishes, and sake selection.
- Safari Grill & Bar Fiji: Offers a mix of international dishes along with Fijian specialties like kokoda and lovo-style meats cooked on an open grill.
- Nando’s Nausori Town Centre: Famous for its flame-grilled peri-peri chicken served with various sauces along with sides like spicy rice or coleslaw.
- Raralevu Park: This park offers open green spaces for picnics, jogging tracks, and playgrounds for children.
- Wainibuku River Recreation Park: Located along the Wainibuku River, this park provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and riverside picnics.
- Nausori Highlands Park: Situated on a hilltop, this park offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is great for hiking and nature walks.
- Vunimono Community Park: A community-managed park with sports fields for soccer or rugby matches as well as a playground.
- Colo-i-Suva Forest Reserve: Although not directly in Nausori (about 10 km away), it is worth mentioning due to its proximity. This reserve offers hiking trails through lush rainforest with waterfalls and natural swimming pools.
- Golfing at Fiji Golf Club: Located near Nausori Airport, this golf course provides an opportunity to enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful surroundings.
- Rugby Matches at Ratu Cakobau Park: This stadium hosts various rugby matches throughout the year where you can watch local teams compete in exciting games.
Please note that availability or access to these parks may vary depending on current conditions or restrictions imposed by local authorities or weather conditions.
