Nadi Airport backs 66th Bula Festival

Events such as the Nadi International Airport Bula Festival help showcase Nadi to visitors, strengthen community pride and contribute to Fiji's reputation as a welcoming and vibrant destination.

Fiji Airports chief executive officer Mesake Nawari made the comments during the launch of the 66th Bula Festival, held in partnership with Nadi International Airport at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi on Saturday night.

Mr Nawari said the partnership was significant because it brought together two institutions synonymous with Nadi — Nadi International Airport (NIA) and the Bula Festival — both of which have long represented connection, hospitality and community pride.

"One connects Fiji to the world, while the other brings our community together in celebration of our culture, people and traditions," he said.

Mr Nawari said the airport played a vital role in supporting Fiji's economy through tourism, trade, investment and business.

"Every day, the airport facilitates tourism, trade, investment and business opportunities that contribute significantly to Fiji's economic growth and development," he said.

"For many visitors, NIA is where their Fiji story begins. It is where they receive their first Bula. It is where they experience the warmth, hospitality and friendliness that Fiji is renowned for around the world."

He said as Nadi continued to grow as a tourism and business hub, the airport remained a key driver of opportunity, connectivity and economic activity.

"As Nadi continues to grow as a tourism and business hub, the airport remains a key driver of opportunity, connectivity and economic activities for Fiji," he said.

"Fiji Airports is proud to support the Nadi International Airport Bula Festival."

Mr Nawari said the festival reflected many of the same values that define NIA, including connection, hospitality, diversity, service and community.

"The decision to name this event the NIA Bula Festival recognises the strong relationship between the airport and the community it serves," he said.

He added that the festival had also helped nurture young leaders who had gone on to make meaningful contributions to their communities and professions.

One example is Alumeci Davu, whose journey from the festival stage to becoming a Fiji Airports intern and brand ambassador demonstrates the opportunities such platforms can create for young people.