Official Language:
Fijian
Secondary Language:
English, Fijian Hindustani
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Currency:
Fijian Dollar
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Population:
Over 50,000 people call Lautoka Fiji home
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Lautoka Fiji: Lautoka enjoys a tropical South Sea maritime climate without great extremes of heat or cold and is a perfect holiday destination, especially for those trying to escape the severe northern hemisphere winters. Maximum summer temperatures (November - April) average 30 degrees celsius . While summer is also called our "rainy season", expect some showers or heavy rainfalls or the possibility of a cyclone. The winter (May - October) average maximum is 78°F/26°C. These are much cooler in the uplands of the interior of the large islands. A cooling trade wind blows from the east south-east for most of the year. It usually drops to a whisper in the evening and picks up again by mid-morning. It is a climate ideally suited for the outdoors, the beach and surf and all other water sports.
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Cruise ships dock at the Port of Lautoka (tel. 679/629-44). Lautoka has an efficient bus service that is popular with locals and tourists alike. In addition Sunbeam Transport (tel. 679/662-822) offers express bus service from Lautoka to the neighboring city of Suva. If you'd like to rent a car while in the city, contact Avis Rent A Car (tel. 679/313-833) for more information.
Legend has it that within the bounds of today’s Lautoka town there lived two tribes each with a chief. As a result of an argument one day, a fight broke out between the two chiefs at a spot which is now known as “Farquhar’s point.” As one chief speared the other he screamed “LAU-TOKA” meaning “spear-hit” ot ‘hit to win”. And so, Lautoka acquired a name.
Lautoka is sited in the western side of Viti Levu, the largest island in Fiji. The first recorded sighting of Lautoka by a European was at dawn on 7th May, 1789 when Cap. Bligh of HMS “ Bounty” made rough charts of the shores of Lautoka and the mountains in its background while sailing past the west coast of Fiji.
Lautoka has countless natural treasures and unmolested habitats that are simply glorious. The name of this exotic town means spear hit or hit to win. The name came about centuries ago when two chiefs from rival tribes got into a battle over territorial rights. One chief hurled a spear at the other, and as it struck the man's chest, the victor shouted lautoka, and the name has stuck ever since.
The gigantic palm trees of Lautoka line the streets and give the city a tremendous amount of shade. This also adds to the secluded feel, and when dining on the patio of one of the fine restaurants in Lautoka, you get the impression that you are in your own private world. Except for the seaport, which is the second busiest in Fiji, the rest of the city is quiet and unhurried. Everywhere you go, shop owners and people on the street are always quick to greet you with a friendly smile.
Sugar is the official crop of Lautoka, and September is the best time of the year to visit, as the entire town celebrates the enchanting Sugar Festival. The primary harvest time is December, and visiting the Sugar Mill during this time is a unique experience that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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Attractions |
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The Lautoka Abaca Village and Recreation Park
can be found at the base of Mount Koroyanitu and is a spectacular natural habitat. Fijian tribes live here and have only recently allowed tourists to come in and view their life and their community. The landscape is gorgeous and there are glorious hiking trails where you can venture deep into the hills of Lautoka. The imposing cliffs are spectacular, and colorful plant life can be found everywhere. The Koroyanitu National Park is found in the same vicinity, and is full of beautiful scenery and exciting island adventures. You can be dropped off by jeep at the foot of one of the mountain trails, hike for as long as you want, and have the vehicle wait for you wherever and whenever you please. This is an extraordinary way to explore to your heart's content and know that you won't be lost in the hills of Fiji. By calling (679/661-511) you can make all of the arrangements ahead of time.
Churchill Park
is a large, open playing field that is a great spot to relax and soak up the scenery of Lautoka. This beautiful grassland can be found behind Vitogo Parade Street and is ideal if you are in the mood for a soothing afternoon.
Pacific Harbour Area
Cultural Centre & Marketplace, 18-hole Trent Jones designed golf course, Navua River Cruise & Rafting, hiking.
Circle Island Or tour around the main island of Viti Levu which is 486 kms. Suggest overnight stops in Rakiraki, Suva, Coral Coast and Nadi visiting sightseeing points of interest around the island.
Nadi AreaGardens of the Sleeping Giant, Viseisei Village, Vuda Point Marina, Denarau Island, Port Denarau, Denarau Golf & Racquet, Nadi Hindu Temple, Nausori Highlands, Handicraft markets, Wailoaloa beach, day cruises.
Rakiraki (Sunshine Coast)
The Sunshine Coast covers the area from Lautoka along the Kings Road around the top of Viti Levu to Rakiraki passing through towns of Ba and Tavua. Lautoka sugar mill (largest in the country), Vatukoula Goldmine, Yaqara cattle farming, Natural Waters of Fiji, Ellington Wharf, Penang Sugar mill, Bilibili rafting, waterfall and culture tour, island cruise.
Sigatoka Area (Coral Coast)
Momi Guns (WWII), Natadola Beach, Tavuni Hill Fort, Sigatoka sand dunes (world heritage listing), Kalevu Cultural Centre, Kula Eco Park, Sigatoka Valley Agricultural Research station, Handicraft markets.
Suva Area
Explore the Capital city, visit Fiji Museum, Thurston botanical gardens, Parliament House, Handicraft market, Yacht club, good selection of cinemas, restaurants, bars, Orchid Island cultural center
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