Wairiki

Wairiki is a village on the western coast of Taveuni, Fiji's third-largest island. Located between Somosomo and Matei, Wairiki is historically significant as the site of a key battle between Tongan and Fijian forces in 1862. It was at Wairiki beach that the Tongan lieutenant Wainiqolo was shot dead, ending a campaign against the Tui Cakau. The Wairiki Mission, a notable Catholic mission and church building, stands as a landmark on the island. Wairiki is part of the Cakaudrove Province and sits on the Somosomo Strait, close to the Rainbow Reef. Taveuni's climate is tropical, with a wet season from November to April and a drier season from May to October.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Matei Airport (TVU), about 5 km north of Wairiki. A taxi costs around FJ$10–15.

By Train

By Car / Road

Wairiki is on Taveuni's main western coastal road, a 5-minute drive south of Matei and 5 minutes north of Somosomo. Buses and share taxis run frequently.

Wairiki is small and walkable. For travel to other parts of Taveuni, buses, share taxis, and rental vehicles are available.

• Wairiki Mission — A historic Catholic mission building and church, a landmark on Taveuni's western coast.

• Wairiki beach — The historic site of the 1862 battle where Tongan forces were defeated.

• Somosomo Strait — Views across the narrow channel toward Vanua Levu.

• Diving at Rainbow Reef — Accessible by short boat ride from Wairiki.

• Snorkelling — The fringing reefs along the coast offer good snorkelling.

• Visit Wairiki Mission — The historic mission offers a quiet place for reflection and panoramic coastal views.

• Explore nearby Matei and Somosomo — Both villages are within walking distance.

• Local eateries — Small restaurants and takeaways serve curry, roti, fried fish, and noodles.
• Nearby resorts — Beachfront resorts in Matei offer restaurant dining.

Kava (yaqona) is the traditional drink. Bottled water is recommended.

• Budget: Basic guesthouses in Wairiki and the surrounding area offer rooms from around FJ$40–60 per night.
• Mid-range: Resorts in nearby Matei offer more comfortable options from FJ$150–300 per night.

Small shops in Wairiki sell basic supplies. For more extensive shopping, visit Naqara (Somosomo) or Matei.

• Matei (5 km north) — Airport village with beachfront resorts.
• Somosomo (3 km south) — Traditional chiefly village and commercial centre.
• Rainbow Reef (5 min by boat) — World-class soft coral diving.
• Waiyevo (10 km south) — Administrative centre with Waitavala Waterslide.
• Bouma National Heritage Park (15 km east) — Bouma Falls and rainforest hiking.