A much more modern room with a combination of local and foreign feel is what The Pearl Resort’s new development presents.
The Pacific Harbour-based resort is all set for its soft launch by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama this evening.
The Pear Resort is owned by Papua New Guinea-based Mineral Resources Development Corporation (MRDC).
Around 500 guests are expected to attend the event with 200 people flying in from Papua New Guinea.
They include the PNG Minister for Finance, James Marape, Chief Secretary to PNG Government, Manasupe Zurenouc and Mineral Resources Development Corporation managing director, Augustine Mano.

Sun Business caught up with the general manager, Natalie Marletta, on the resort and marina development just before the soft launch.
Ms Marletta said the new 132 rooms which have been constructed have a different feel and look from their existing rooms.
“We have gone for a much modern look – we have got furniture and pieces from all around the world while all the joinery is from Fiji,” she said.
She said the design, setup and of course the view overlooking the river running past the resort into the famous Beqa Lagoon.
The new complex includes 132 new rooms, spa, gym, a marina able to berth 20 yachts, conference centre and a restaurant and bar.

Completion, timeframes

The $85 million investment began in December 2013 and is nearing completion in less than two years.
Ms Marletta said they have not gone past the budget and neither have they strayed off the original design.
“We have enhanced it along the way and changed a few aspects of it but nothing major. This was our vision and it stayed that way,” she said.
Ms Marletta said they were impressed with contractor, Pacific Building Solutions, who were spot on with the timeframe if not before time.
The development has neared completion and final touch-ups are being given.
Ms Marletta confirmed the works are expected to finish off by the end of this month and they are planning to have the grand opening next month.

Fiji Sun, September 12, 2015