In September, we witnessed an impressive event of more than 500 guests at the soft launch of The Pearl. Last night we had a spectacular grand opening of the resort. The Pacific Harbour resort had over 180 guests at the event. The Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism Faiyaz Siddiq Koya, the President of Fiji Ratu Epeli Nailatiku and directors from Papua New Guinea flown in to attend.

The Pearl is owned by Papua New Guinea-based Mineral Resources Development Corporation (MRDC). Resort General manager Natalie Marletta said the launch is a little different from the soft opening. The official opening is more formal.
Ms Marletta said: “We have a six course dinner plan for the guests. A lot of fine wines, great champagne, entertainment, so it is a very formal evening.”

The launch was held in the multi-purpose state-of-the-art conference room which will be hosting a wedding today of more than 300 guests. The new complex includes 132 rooms, spa, gym, a marina able to berth 20 yachts, conference centre and a restaurant and bar. The $85 million investment including 190 staff who also had their new uniforms launched last night.

Future
Ms Marletta added there are great things are yet to come for Pacific Harbour. “We plan to expand The Pearl as a product whether it is in Pacific Harbour or somewhere else in Fiji,” she added. “However, we would really like the product to grow and branch out into other hotels.” The contractors of the new complex were Pacific Building Solutions, who have done an excellent job.

Fiji Sun, October 31, 2015