Experience the magic of Fijian diving and culture with Dive Otago on an unforgettable trip to Matava Resort. Join us in March 2025 to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of Fiji, a diver’s paradise where every descent reveals breathtaking underwater wonders. Located on the edge of the Great Astrolabe Reef, one of the world’s largest and most pristine barrier reefs, Matava Resort offers incredible diversity in dive sites—from dramatic walls and caverns to thriving coral gardens bustling with marine life like manta rays, reef sharks, and a kaleidoscope of fish species.
What makes this trip even more remarkable is the opportunity to immerse yourself in Fijian culture. At Matava, you'll experience true Fijian hospitality, with a chance to learn about local customs, sample authentic cuisine, and engage with the resort’s eco-friendly initiatives. The resort’s intimate, off-the-grid setting promotes sustainable practices that respect and preserve the natural beauty of Fiji’s reefs and landscapes.
Whether you’re an experienced diver or newly certified, Dive Otago’s expert guides ensure you’ll experience the very best of Fiji’s underwater world and culture. Get ready for an adventure that combines awe-inspiring dives with the warmth and vibrancy of Fijian life, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Full Price (ex Melbourne): Diver - $5198 NZD* Non-Diver - $4252 NZD*
*Payment plans available
Upgrades: MORE DIVES : ADD 2 Extra boat dives + $ 220 per diver SINGLE ROOM ADD $ 650 HONEYMOON BURE ADD $325 pp twin share See more information on this trip below.
To enquire or book this trip email emma@diveotago.co.nz
FIJI DIVE EXPEDITION 2025
Experience Manta Reef
Our signature dive site, Manta Reef, offers the unique opportunity to dive or occasionally snorkel with majestic manta rays year-round. This vibrant reef, located about 40 minutes from the resort, acts as a feeding station and a cleaning spot for both resident and visiting pelagic manta rays. With its top at around 15 meters, the reef is covered in lush hard and soft corals, and is home to fascinating marine life, including clusters of clownfish, stunning hard coral formations, and intricate sea fans.
Divers here often encounter giant mantas with wingspans up to 20 feet, along with schooling fusiliers, surgeonfish, mackerel, and even the occasional Pacific sailfish or hammerhead shark. The Manta Reef dive includes two morning dives, with a relaxing surface interval in calm waters inside the Great Astrolabe Barrier Reef before heading back to the resort for lunch. We make it a priority to bring our guests to Manta Reef at least once per week to experience these awe-inspiring manta encounters.
Diving on the Great Astrolabe Reef
The Great Astrolabe Reef, stretching over 120 km along Kadavu's southern edge and named after the French ship Astrolabe, is a marvel of marine biodiversity and one of the world's premier diving destinations. This fourth-largest barrier reef is home to a vast range of coral structures, vibrant marine life, and thriving breeding grounds for tuna, marlin, giant trevally, and various shark species.
Our dive excursions explore this hidden underwater paradise, offering sites suitable for all levels, with visibility ranging from 20 to 100 meters. The reef’s diverse terrain includes exhilarating dives through vibrant coral gardens, swim-throughs, and nutrient-rich currents that sustain the entire ecosystem. Dive sites like Naiqoro Passage are renowned for their big fish action and soft coral-coated walls, while areas near Ono and Buliya Islands offer gentler encounters with manta rays and other pelagic species.
Astrolabe Reef provides an incredible range of fish life and diverse hard and soft corals, with many areas still unexplored. From the 63-meter Pacific Voyager Wreck to the protected Muto Marine area and the vast, untouched sections of the reef, Astrolabe promises unforgettable and dynamic dives. Join us for ‘Virgin Diving’ at one of the world’s most pristine and undiscovered reefs, where each dive holds the thrill of discovery and breathtaking underwater vistas.
At Matava Resort, guests can enjoy a variety of non-diving activities that showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of Fiji:
Snorkeling: Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just off the resort's shores.
Birdwatching: Discover diverse avian species in their natural habitats, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Trekking: Embark on guided hikes through lush rainforests, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.
Surfing:Ride the waves at nearby surf spots suitable for various skill levels.
Ocean Kayaking: Paddle through crystal-clear waters, exploring secluded coves and enjoying the serene marine environment.
Cultural Experiences: Engage with local communities to learn about Fijian traditions, crafts, and daily life.
Spa Treatments: Relax and rejuvenate with a range of spa services designed to enhance your well-being.
These activities provide enriching experiences for all guests, whether seeking adventure or relaxation. Additional charges apply.
FLIGHT 1:15PM Depart Christchurch in Economy Class on Fiji Airwaysflight number FJ450 to Nadi. Arriving 5:15PM
8:10AM Depart Nadi on Fiji Airways flight number FJ142 to Christchurch. Arriving 12:15PM
Matava Resort offers an immersive eco-friendly experience on a secluded Fijian island, combining traditional design with modern comfort.
Accommodation
Guests stay in handcrafted Fijian bures (bungalows) nestled amidst lush tropical surroundings. Each bure features a private sun deck with views of turquoise lagoons and the Great Astrolabe Reef. The resort emphasizes sustainability, utilizing solar-powered lighting and hot water to minimize its carbon footprint.
Resort Features
Organic Farm-to-Table Dining:The resort's restaurant serves fresh, organic meals sourced from its own gardens and local producers, offering a true taste of Fijian cuisine.
Adventure and Relaxation:Guests can engage in activities such as diving, snorkeling, surfing, jungle trekking, and ocean kayaking. For relaxation, the resort provides spa services and opportunities to unwind on deserted beaches.
Cultural Connection: Matava fosters meaningful connections with the local community, allowing guests to experience authentic Fijian culture and traditions.
Matava Resort invites guests to unplug, recharge, and rediscover what matters most in the untouched beauty of Fiji.
