Leaving Nadi during 6hr layover (Air Pacific Auckland to LA)

[Rickd]

Hi

I'm flying from Auckland to LA on Air Pacific and have a 6hr layover in Nadi. Will I be allowed to leave the airport during this time? I've Googled and found various reports from difference people saying they were and weren't allowed out. I am an NZ citizen if that makes a difference.

I'm guessing I'll only have 3-4hrs to spare once we get off and through customs and allowing time to board. Is there anywhere near the airport worth going?

Cheers

 

[BjJames]

With a NZ passport, you should have no problem leaving the airport - you'll have to fill in the normal arrival (immigration) form - just say you are going out to do some shopping in Nadi to come back later for your connecting flight. But unless you really want to do shopping (pushy salespeople, products not much different to anywhere else) I would head to one of the resort hotels at "Denarau island" not really an island, it's only 10-15 minutes by taxi, and it should be a flat (negotiated) fare - eg to the Sheraton - and sit at the pool bar with a cold drink, and take it all in - wishing you could get your gear off for a swim . Remember that the checkin process can be a bit tedious - you'll have to do it if you don't already have a boarding pass (ask them to issue it in AKL, if they will), even though your luggage is already checked through. The Air Pacific lounge is just OK - and can be crowded at times.

 

[richie9x]

I have never done a transit in Fiji but I would expect it should be ok for you to clear customs and immigration for that length of time.

The Garden of the Sleeping Giant is close to the airport if you want to go for a wander around a big tropical garden.

The main Nadi township is about 5-10 minute taxi ride a way. Is interesting to have a wander around especially if you haven't been before. Nothing spectacular. A few good restaurants to eat at. There is a colourful Hindu temple at the south of town that is worth a visit

 

[Rickd]

The main Nadi township is about 5-10 minute taxi ride a way. Is interesting to have a wander around especially if you haven't been before. Nothing spectacular. A few good restaurants to eat at. There is a colourful Hindu temple at the south of town that is worth a visit

Thanks for the replies. How much should a taxi fare to Nadi township cost? And to Denarau island? I haven't been to Nadi before so I'm thinking a walk around the township might be the most interesting thing to do. Is finding a taxi back to the airport easy enough?

 

[Rickd]

p.s. what are the good restaurants in Nadi?

 

[Simo]

Depending on the time and the day you are there it could be an awesome few hours.

Nearly every night at Port Denaru they have dancers doing performances.

Great food options around there as well.

There is some markets in the Nadi as well but if you are there on a week day they are very pushy not so pushy on weekends.

Jacks is always good for souvenirs but expensive. More than likely one at the airport to satisfy what you want.

 

[Simo]

p.s. what are the good restaurants in Nadi?

At the port there are many restaurants it just depends on what you want.

Also Westin on Denaru Island has an awesome steak rest.

If you want a casual meal go to the golf club just near the Sheraton. Huge Pizza's.