Suva is underrated, says David Dewar, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise’s trade commissioner Pacific.
It is for this reason that he and his family bring friends and family to the capital.
One of our favourite activities is to go to Nukulau Island, he said.
It’s only 30 minutes from Suva, and we love camping there with friends and family.
We toast marshmallows, cook a barbecue, bake damper, kick a ball, or just sit under the sky watching for shooting stars.
On the family’s most recent visit, Mr Dewar’s sons spotted a seahorse, which they described as very special.
It’s magnificent to look back over the harbour and see the lights of Suva, Mr Dewar said.
The Dewars have resided in Fiji for more than two years, during which time they explored so many amazing places including the Yasawas, Taveuni, Beqa, Vanua Levu, Tailevu, Namosi, Ra and the Mamanucas.
The highlight has been the wonderful, fun, generous people that we’ve met everywhere, Mr Dewar said.
Our children spent more time in this country than anywhere else in their lives and are proud to tell people overseas they are from Fiji.
Originally from Wellington, he enjoys the occasional dive and walking under trees looking for lost golf balls.
I’m unskilled at all these things so I try to get in a lot of practice, Mr Dewar said.
I’ve lived in a few places around the world: South America, Belgium, Australia, and now Fiji.
Suva is by far the favourite place we’ve lived; don’t tell my Aussie in-laws.
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise’s trade commissioner Pacific, David Dewar.
Like all kiwis, I love my rugby and one of my favourite things is taking our kids to see the Drua play.
My own team (the Hurricanes) has not fared very well against them so far, but as they say, if you can’t beat them, join them.
And it’s a very easy team to have adopted – Toso Drua!”
What is your favourite spot for coffee or pie?
Farmer’s Daughter, Mana or Moments Café, I like variety as my job involves a lot of meetings.
I grew up in Wellington, New Zealand, so I do love a good coffee. And it’s great having so many excellent options near my office.
But I must give a special shout out for the team at The Coffee Hub on Gordon St, who do tend to look after me most mornings.
As for pie, I would eat that anywhere.
My friend Litia from Pacific Harbour is one of the best cooks I know, so I think she gets my vote for making best pie in town.
What is your favourite backyard spot?
I love to go fishing in and around Suva. I’m unsuccessful, so there’s no danger of overfishing, but it’s a great way to relax with friends.
We’ve also loved spending time around Namosi, and staying at the eco-lodge there.
The mountains in Fiji’s interior are incredible and it’s great to escape from the city to do things like play in the river, making rafts with the kids, walking up and down hills and through the bush.
One of my favourite things about living in Fiji is how much time we get to spend out-side – walking, kayaking, swimming, going to waterfalls and other adventures.
The kids love trekking around too and always come away with lots of new friends.
What is one place in Fiji that is on your bucket list?
Kadavu.
I’d love to have the chance to dive in the Great Astrolabe Reef and to see the manta rays.
Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj