A family paradise adventure

By Amanda Viana

When I entered the NZ Divers Survey 2024 competition, I never imagined I’d actually win a trip to Fiji. But five unforgettable nights at the stunning Volivoli Beach Resort proved to be everything we didn’t know we needed—and more.

Tucked away on the northernmost tip of Viti Levu, Volivoli Resort is known among divers for its world-class reefs, but what we discovered as a family was something even deeper: connection, discovery, and unforgettable shared experiences.

Departing from Christchurch, we had a great flight with Fiji Airways and arrived at Nadi Airport to a warm Fijian welcome. The scenic drive to the resort took us through rolling hills, lush villages, and we caught glimpses of the coast that whetted our appetite for the days ahead. The roughly 2.5-hour drive gave us time to settle into 'Fiji time' and appreciate the island’s beauty beyond the beach.

Volivoli Resort greeted us with calm and quiet - it was blissfully peaceful thanks to being low season and we felt like we had the whole resort to ourselves. The staff were incredibly warm and attentive, especially with our teenage children, taking the time to learn their names and encourage them to try new experiences. From check-in to farewell, their hospitality felt genuine and personal.

Both my husband and I are divers, but our children had never been before so snorkeling off the resort beach was a good introduction to the underwater world as was the guided boat trip to the outer reef which added another layer of awe—soft corals, and a kaleidoscope of reef fish made every moment in the water spectacular.

We decided then it was the perfect place for them to do the Try Scuba programme. Our daughter, in particular, was very nervous but the resort's dive instructor and staff made her feel completely at ease. We all hopped into the pool to go over the basics and then it was only a short boat ride before we were jumping in the ocean to experience the magic of being underwater. We were in awe of the colourful corals, schools of fish, and the odd nudibranch! Watching our teens marvel at it all made it even more rewarding and they were even lucky enough to spot a reef shark.

Back on land, the cultural performance night was a hit. From traditional Fijian dancing to the melodic clapping and tapping of wooden instruments, it gave us all a deeper appreciation of the place we were lucky enough to visit and created memories we’ll talk about for years.

The food throughout the stay was exceptional. Fresh, flavourful, and thoughtfully prepared, every meal catered beautifully to a mix of tastes. We also couldn’t fault the family villa we stayed in which was tucked away in a secluded part of the resort surrounded by lush vegetation and beautiful flowers.

As we made the drive back to Nadi, we reflected on a trip that wasn’t just about escaping the everyday. It was about discovering something new as a family, under the surface and within ourselves. Vinaka vaka levu to Underwater New Zealand, Volivoli Beach Resort and Fiji Airways. You’ve inspired two old and two new ocean lovers!

Visit volivoli.com for more on Fiji's premier dive resort. Fiji Airways flies from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch to Fiji; visit fijiairways.com.