Beekeeping In Fiji

Destinations for Bee Lovers: The Beehive, Fiji 

Being on Asia’s doorstep is a complete blessing. In the past year or two, I have made a few trips to different Asian countries and each time I have been delighted, amazed, well-fed, nurtured, flabbergasted, and sent home with a feeling of complete renewal and possibility. Fiji was absolutely no exception, and spending time there with my three gorgeous children was an experience I will never forget. From the departure gate at the airport on our way home to Melbourne – the kids looking relaxed, sun-kissed and wild-haired – I had some time to think about some of the magical places I was lucky enough to visit. 

The Beehive is located on Wailevu Road, Nanuku, Rakiraki, and is operated by the two Suva-born operators Mark and Suzie Hirst Tuilai. The Beehive is a homestay, apiary and bee farm that is nestled among sugar cane fields 11.5 km from Rakiraki. Set out like a cosy hive, the homestay has one family “Queen” room with two queen beds and a single bed, as well as four dorms with a double and three single bunk beds. There are outdoor camping tents, a fire pit where you watch the stars, BBQs, a bar, a restaurant, a pool, and – most importantly – a bee farm and onsite hives for the production of local honey. Originally, the property used to be a Christian orphanage and retreat but closed up in 2016 when Mark and Suzie opened it as the Beehive. 

As described in a recent review in the Fiji Sun newspaper, the Beehive is a “must-see” when visiting Fiji and I would completely agree! As with everywhere I visited, the owners and guests were so friendly and welcoming; I can imagine that if I didn’t have so many commitments at home I could have easily stayed on at the Beehive, for more than a night or two, to lap up the beautiful scenery, bee-culture, delicious food and relaxed atmosphere. www.thebeehivefiji.com