Thursday 31 December 2009

Divers and Medical Professionals Combine Work and Passion for Scuba Diving Through Fiji Project

Most people think of Fiji as an island paradise, but there are many children in villages in tremendous need of medical and dental care. Mark Fischer, owner of Keizer's Hydrosports Dive and Travel, wants to put together a team of "underwater ambassadors" and medical professionals to help those children. Learn how you can combine your profession, passion and also receive tax benefits as a result of participating in this medical mission.

When: 1/13/2010 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Where: 665 Winter St. SE Salem, 97301

Cost: Free

More Info: Mark Fischer

Divers and Medical Professionals Combine Work and Passion for Scuba Diving Through Fiji Project

Friday 18 December 2009

Matava fully operational after Cyclone MICK - Matava - Fijis Premier Eco Adventure Resort

http://www.sxc.hu/pic/m/e/en/enimal/905450_merry_christmas.jpgOn Monday 14th December 2009 Fiji was hit by a Tropical Cyclone, TC Mick. The cyclone passed straight over the main island and just to the East of Kadavu Island. Although the resort experienced high winds and heavy rain, no damage was done to the resort at all, apart from the loss of some thatch from the corner of the roof of the dive centre. The guests and staff spent the whole day playing cards, board games and reading books safely in the Main Bure while Maggie served breakfast, lunch and dinner as normal. Richard has said that the biggest thing he is upset about is that most of the mangoes came down out the big mango tree! No mango jam this year!

By Tuesday 15th December we were once again fishing, diving and trekking as normal, in glorious sunshine albeit with a stiff breeze!

The cyclone passed quickly and was over in less than a day, however Kadavu island, like the main island, did experiences high winds. Kadavu's main Telecom Fiji tower in Vunisea sustained damage and at the moment, all communication (including mobile services) are down on Kadavu.

Unfortunately this means that we are currently unable to communicate directly with our reservations system at the resort. A communications issue such as this would normally be repaired quickly however with the other wind damage to many systems on the main island, it may be a few days before normal communications with the resort is re-established. Please bear with us.

Furthermore, Airports Fiji Ltd was also engaged in an upgrade to Kadavu Airport last week. Although no interruptions to services were expected, the works (now delayed by the cyclone) have now caused short term interruptions to flight services. All flights to and from Kadavu from Nadi International Airport and Suva Airport are currently suspended and we have been advised that the airport will re-open on the 18th December 2009.

We appreciate your patience in these matters, and rest assured that we are all fine and 100% fully operational at Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort.

May we take this opportunity to wish you and your family all the best for this festive season

Richard, Adrian, Jeanie, Stuart & The Team

Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort


Matava fully operational after Cyclone MICK - Matava - Fijis Premier Eco Adventure Resort

Saturday 7 November 2009

DIVE ME, new dive boat being built in Navua, Fiji for Mad Fish Dive Centre

Richard takes DIVE ME for its first spin!

Thursday 29 October 2009

“No Caught Shark Allowed”: Matava leading the Shark Free Marina Initiative in Fiji

Matava and Bite Me Gamefishing Charters in Fiji are taking a leading role in the international shark conservation efforts, organizing Fiji to become the first country to fully participate in the Shark-Free Marina Initiative (SFMI).

The SFMI works with marinas, boaters and fishermen to develop policy designed to protect sharks as a vital component of the oceans health. The SFMI has a singular purpose, to reduce worldwide shark mortality. Working with marinas, fishermen and like minded non-profit groups, the Initiative forms community conscious policy and increase awareness of the need to encourage shark conservation.

Shark Free Marinas work with, not against, the recreational and commercial fishing community, in order to raise awareness of the importance of a healthy shark population for our oceans, and to contribute to their ongoing survival.

Matava, together with partners in Fiji, has helped many marinas and charter fishing boats become SFMI certified, and Fiji now has more certified Shark-Free Marinas than any other country in the world. Stuart Gow, Director of Matava, said that his team has been actively promoting the SFMI, and distributing information about the Initiative, with the long-term goal of making Fiji “the first country to be proud to announce itself as a ‘Shark-Free Marinas’ Country”.

See the map of current Shark-Free Marinas



The majority of shark species caught by recreational and sport anglers are currently listed by the IUCN as “Threatened” (or worse) and each year, half a million of these sharks are killed in the US alone. It is estimated that 70-100 million sharks are killed yearly worldwide.

See IUCN Red List of Threatened Shark Species

About Matava

Matava is an eco adventure getaway in Fiji, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences and adventure activities in the pristine and remote island of Kadavu, Fiji. Matava is a PADI Dive Resort as well as a Project AWARE GoEco Operator, a title awarded to demonstrate a commitment to conservation and provide customers with experiences that enhance visitor awareness, appreciation and understanding of the environment. Matava is also one of the supporters of the Fiji Shark Conservation and Awareness Project, which aims to raise global awareness of their imminent extinction of sharks and the crises facing our oceans.

With more than 12 years experience in the Fiji Islands, Matava is recognized as a leading educational dive center. Matava is participating in TIES ecoDestinations project (currently featuring “beaches, marine and coastal ecotourism experience”) as one of the Summer Special 2009 sponsors.

Underwater Thrills:Swimming With Sharks: “No Caught Shark Allowed”: Matava leading the Shark Free Marina Initiative in Fiji

Wednesday 28 October 2009

Whale Shark in Kadavu, Fiji

Whale Shark in Kadavu, Fiji with Mad Fish Dive Centre at Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort www.Scubs-Diving-Fiji.com

Ocean in Focus Photo Contest Home 2009

SeaWeb's Marine Photobank and Project AWARE Foundation
2nd Annual

Ocean in Focus
Conservation Photography Contest

2009 Grand Prize Winner - Mangrove and Bulldozer by Matthew PotenskiThe Grand Prize will be awarded to Matthew Potenski. Though Potenski spends his days as the director of field operations at The Shark Research Institute, the winning photo features quite a different subject. His intentions, in June of this year, were to take journalists interested in mangroves into a small lagoon where sharks could be found. Rather than sharks, they stumbled upon this backhoe hard at work dredging the lagoon. His shot of a defiant, young mangrove shoot, standing alone in the path of human destruction is truly inspiring. After showing the image to local authorities in South Bimini, Bahamas, Potenski learned that no permits for the developers to dredge in the area could be found.

Read SeaWeb's interview with Grand Prize winner Matthew Potenski >>
View the prizes page to see what the winners receive >>


Winning photographers will receive the following prizes:

Grand Prize!

  • Seven nights ocean-view accommodations at MATAVA, a premier eco-adventure resort in Fiji. Package includes 5 days 2 tank diving for two and 6 days unlimited shore diving for two as well as roundtrip airport transfers.
  • Carbon Offsets through NativeEnergy from your home and car for one year plus carbon offset for one round-trip air flight.
  • A DVD copy of A Sea Change, The journey of a man and his grandson to uncover the hard science of ocean acidification.
Ocean in Focus Photo Contest Home 2009

Monday 26 October 2009

Bryde’s Whales seen the other day off Solo, north of Kadavu



A pod of at least 8 Bryde’s Whales seen the other day off Solo, north of Kadavu...




Breaching and feeding. We'd never seen a Bryde’s Whales breach before.


Bryde's Whale. (2009, October 25). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 23:25, October 25, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bryde%27s_Whale&oldid=321942522

Bryde’s Whales are the least-known and in many ways the most unusual of the rorquals. They are small by rorqual standards—no more than about 25 tonnes—prefer tropical and temperate waters to the polar seas that other whales in their family frequent; are largely coastal rather than pelagic, and although they retain the characteristic plates of whalebone that the baleen whales use to sieve small creatures from the waters with, their diet is composed almost entirely of fish.

"Bryde" is pronounced /ˈbruːdə/ ("brooda"), and "Bryde's whale" is sometimes misheard as "brutus whale". The Bryde’s whale is named for the Norwegian consul to South Africa, Johan Bryde, who helped set up the first whaling station in Durban, South Africa in 1908.

Bryde’s whales feed on pelagic schooling fish, such as anchovy, herring and sardine.

They are distributed widely throughout tropical and subtropical waters, with a separate, smaller, pygmy species found in tropical Western Pacific and South-East Asia.

Saturday 10 October 2009

General Arrangement of DIVE ME

General Arrangement of DIVE ME our new dive boat
www,Scuba-Diving-Fiji.com

www.eco-tropicalresorts.com

Ultimate Eco Escapes
Sport Diver Magazine Sept 2009
Matava named as one of only 6 Ultimate Eco Escapes in the World in Sport Diver Magazine – September 2009

www.eco-tropicalresorts.com

Friday 9 October 2009

DIVE ME, new dive boat 9 Oct 2009

Chris, the builder of DIVE ME

European Shark Week, 10-18 October

European Shark Week, 10-18 October, is a unique opportunity for European Union citizens and shark advocates around the world to demonstrate their support for shark conservation and effect change.

MeetinginLondon

Project AWARE Director, Suzanne Pleydell and Shark Alliance members present signatures in London

This year, Project AWARE Foundation and Shark Alliance Partners are going back to governments for follow-up action under the EU Shark Plan, most importantly, improvements to the finning ban and quotas of zero for especially threatened shark species.


Why Sign Your Support?
Europe houses some of the world’s largest shark fishing fleets. Strong plans of action here effect global species conservation.

Your voice counts. The European Shark Week 2008 saw the collection of more than 100,000 signatures on a Shark Plan petition for EU Fisheries Ministers. The Ministers have since issued a strong response that highlights the plight of sharks and calls for prompt strengthening of the EU finning ban. Indeed, the Ministers’ words reflect the concerns of a growing number of EU citizens expressed through European Shark Week.


Predator turned prey - Turning the Tide for Sharks
Most European shark populations are declining from overfishing. One-third are threatened with extinction. The EU ban on “finning”, slicing off a shark’s fins and discarding the body at sea, is among the world's weakest.

Hope lies with the new Shark Plan, adopted by the European Commission thanks in large part to support from many of you. The Plan sets the stage for vast improvements in EU shark policies, including the finning ban. Its success depends on collaboration and action by EU Fisheries Ministers and the European Commission. These fishery managers need encouragement from the European public to follow through on the Plan’s initiatives and truly safeguard sharks.



Project AWARE

Tuesday 6 October 2009

Sea fan in Fiji

Scuba diving at its best on the Great Astrolabe Reef, Kadavu with Mad Fish Dive Centre at Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure And Dive Resort
Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure And Dive Resort

Tuesday 29 September 2009

DIVE ME, our new dive boat

First TOP SECRET pictures of Mad Fish Dive Centre's new dive boat, MV DIVE ME!

Monday 28 September 2009

FIJI: THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD

(21-09-09) All the dreamed exoticism of Southern Seas, is assembled in the remote islands of Fiji. Exuberant nature, warm locals and a spectacular underwater world.

A typical question at school was where the antipodes of Spain were located. “Anti... what?” It could be the classic answer of many children. With this term we mean the part of the world that lies just on the opposite side of where we are, well, in the case of the Iberian Peninsula, the antipodes would be located in the vicinity of the Fiji Islands, in the middle of the Pacific.

This remote and small archipelago lies 1,770 km north of New Zealand, it has all the classic ingredients of the South Seas, and, of course, an excellent dive, which makes the place be a dream destination for all divers in the world.

KADAVU ISLAND

This time we are going to discover one of the most remote areas of the archipelago. This is the island of Kadavu, located about 90 km south of the main island, Viti Levu. There, an interesting phenomenon of ecotourism has been doing for many years. A “private”, fisheries reserve has been created, managed by local people themselves and where the diving is particularly important.

In exchange for self-regulation of the fishermen, they charge a small tax on divers to ensure the preservation of the reefs. Here, large Asian fleets, which devastate the seas of the region, are unwelcome.

The diving in the area is around the Great Astrolabe Reef that runs over 120 km along the south-southwest coast of the island. Large areas of coral are lined as if they were a barrier to protect the lush coastline from storms. Also, several passages, which are the most interesting for the underwater exploration, appear. Wildlife is abundant and, especially spectacular.

In these turquoise waters the dream of any diver can came true: its abundance, size or rarity. Whales migrating that enter the reef lagoon, manta rays, different types of sharks, marlins and turtles will delight lovers of the great meetings. But for fans of the tiny things, ghost pipe fish or ribbon eel, along with many shrimp in soft corals or colourful nudibranchs, will make us fall into a fantasy world.

MEETING THE MANTA RAYS

One of the great attractions of the area is the abundance of manta rays, with sighting almost guaranteed. To do this we stand, after a long journey, in Manta Point, a coral plateau with a bottom of between 15 and 20 m that is place of appointment of these great animals.

We expectant cover the bottom of the sea, searching every corner. They spend a few minutes, but the animals are not going to miss the appointment. Depending on the time of the day and also the season, we can see them worming and eating. In the first case they are quieter, but the second one is certainly much more spectacular.

The manta rays come from the blue and start to turn back on themselves in a sort of exciting circle dance, a spectacle. With their big mouths and gill slits at full capacity, they introduce large amounts of plankton floating in the water.

They seem not to be tired because of spinning in what is basically a feast for them. The downside of this underwater ballet is that, obviously, the clarity is not much, precisely because of the amount of food that, after all, is why they come here.

One of the different entrances that open on the reef is known as Eagle Rock, since there is a large rock in its centre and encounters with sea eagles are usually frequent. It is a common area, and with great abundance of life. So, just we start the dive, two shoals welcome us: one of small barracuda, and the other one of carangid fish, prologue of the emotions that we are going to live.

We began the descent to glimpse the great rock. There is little current and do not see many animals. Our dive master, Jon, a native of the area and discoverer of these bottoms, starts to initiate a strange ritual. He takes a small plastic bottle from the pocket of his waistcoat and fills it partially with water. What is happening? Narcosis? We are just twenty metres deep. Once the operation finishes he starts to rub the bottle in his hands.

A dull and heavy sound is spreading across the submerged reef. The rate increases in a kind of frenzied “crescendo”. Suddenly the sharks, magically, begin to appear: first some oceanic white tip shark and then several gray sharks. Sharks undoubtedly are attracted by the sound, as they come very close to us. We can count, first, two, then three, five, even ten specimens.

This technique, as then Jon will tell us, attracts sharks. They come to find out what it is, and originally it was widespread across the Pacific either with shell rattles, wooden instruments, etc. They tried to get the attention of sharks to attract them and to catch them. These days, the purposes and instruments have changed, but the animals are still curious about this sort of ancestral call, a sound outside their silent world.

nagoro passage

This is a difficult dive, but it also is spectacular. It is into a large passage that the strength of the ocean has been digging for hundreds of years in the reef. Here, the reef wall has been cracked by the strength of the sea. This way, a passage as a perfect “v” that begins in the lake and ends in the deep blue of the open and wild ocean has been created.

Obviously, the currents in the area are strong, very strong, and we must exercise caution, besides having a good planning and knowledge of the area. We started taking advantage of the outgoing current. We are already under the water and, gradually, the current becomes more evident and pushes us towards the open sea. A hammerhead shark joins us in these early stages. In the area closest to the coast we can see sea gorgonian and soft corals that benefit from the hydrodynamics of the area.

But as we go along, the life on the walls disappears because of the virulence of the water. A tortoise seems to guide us in this oceanic path, which is gathering strength as we get closer to the exit. The walls are becoming steeper and deeper and the blue of the open sea gets an intense blue coloration.

In the blink of an eye we are out and we have to locate the outer wall not to get lost in the immensity of the sea. The surprises in this area are enormous, with numerous gray and white tip sharks, and the distant silhouette of a tiger shark. Large Napoleon fish or huge tuna walk on the area.

We still have time to repeat the experience, but this time in the opposite direction: from the sea to the lake. It is an interesting contrast to see two different realities. In this case it is essential the good work of our dive master to locate the entrance and go to that sort of giant funnel that, with the incoming current, quickly introduces us to the lake, where we can have fun with the great abundance of tropical fish. It is a feast for the eyes, after a frantic dive.

Text and Photos: Juan Carlos García

http://www.marine-world.es/ingles/dives/fijijcg/fiji.html

Friday 25 September 2009

Fiji,_al_otro_lado_del_mundo

(21-09-09) Todo el exotismo soñado de los Mares del Sur, se concentra en las lejanas islas de Fiji. Naturaleza exuberante, cálidos lugareños y un mundo submarino espectacular.

Una típica pregunta de colegio era dónde estaban las antípodas de España. ¿Anti… que? Podía ser la respuesta clásica de muchos niños. Con este término nos referimos a la parte del planeta que se sitúa justo en el extremo contrario de donde estamos, pues bien, en el caso de la península ibérica las antípodas se localizarían en las proximidades de las islas Fiji, situadas en medio del Pacífico.

Fiji Fiji Fiji Fiji

Este lejano y pequeño archipiélago se encuentra a 1.770 km al N de Nueva Zelanda, presenta todos los ingredientes clásicos de los mares del Sur, y por supuesto un buceo de primera, que lo convierte en un destino soñado por todos los submarinistas del mundo.

la isla de kadavu

En esta ocasión vamos a descubrir una de las zonas más remotas del archipiélago. Se trata de la isla de Kadavu que se encuentra a unos 90 km al sur de la isla principal, Viti Levu. Allí se viene realizando desde hace algunos años un interesante fenómeno de turismo ecológico, con la creación de una reserva de pesca “privada”, gestionada por las propias poblaciones locales y en la que el buceo adquiere especial importancia.

Fiji Fiji Fiji Fiji

A cambio de una autorregulación de los pescadores, éstos cobran un pequeño impuesto a los buceadores que garantiza la buena conservación de los arrecifes. Aquí no son bienvenidas las grandes flotas asiáticas, que siembran de muerte los mares de la región.

El buceo en la zona se articula alrededor del Gran Arrecife Astrolabio que recorre durante más de 120 km toda la costa sur-suroeste de la isla. Grandes extensiones coralinas se alinean como una gran barrera que protege la exuberante costa de las tormentas y tempestades. A la vez que se abren varios pasajes y bajos, que son los más interesantes para la exploración submarina. La fauna es abundante y, sobre todo, espectacular.

Full article here: Fiji,_al_otro_lado_del_mundo

Tuesday 22 September 2009

PADI Diving Society’s Photo Contest Deadline Approaching

Each year, PADI Diving Society produces a limited-edition Society membership card for more than 175,000 Society members worldwide. In the past, PADI Offices have used photos from internal collections or invited renowned underwater photographers to provide images for each card. This year, the PADI Diving Society is inviting all novice and professional underwater photographers to participate in a photo contest: The winning image will be displayed on the 2010 Society membership card. 2009 Society Member Card Turtle and Diver


Participants can submit up to three photos* showcasing their best underwater or dive lifestyle images and all entries must be received by 22 September 2009. Judges from PADI Offices and affiliated PADI Diving Society publications will pick the top images and open this select group for final public voting in October 2009. Look for opportunities to participate or vote at padi.com, the PADI Blog, MySpace or Facebook pages. The winner will be announced in November 2009 and will receive photo credit, a certificate of recognition, global exposure and bragging rights!

How to participate:
Submit up to three photos* of your best underwater or diving lifestyle photos as high resolution images minimum 300 dpi; in a horizontal digital image in proportion to 9.56 x 6.4cm or 3.75 x 2.5 inches.

2008 Member CardHow to Submit Your Entry:
1. Email all entries (maximum of three photographs) to your affiliated PADI Diving Society office with subject header: 2010 Society membership card entry. – Society office details below
2. Include your name, mailing address, contact number and Society membership number, if applicable.
3. All entries must be accompanied with a signed Photo Release document. – Available from your Society office


To find your local office- visit padidivingsociety.com and look for the 2010 PADI Diving Society membership card icon or link. Or find your office below!

PADI Americas/ Sport Diver Readers:
Visit www.padi.com/societyphotocontest for details or email aja.smith@padi.com

PADI Asia Pacific/ Scuba Diver AustralAsia Readers:
Click here for more details or email padidivingsociety@padi.com.au

PADI International/ Sport Diver UK Readers:
email pds@padi.co.uk

*All entries must be accompanied by a signed photo release. Deadline is 22 September 2009.

Monday 21 September 2009

Ultimate Eco Escapes - Sport Diver Magazine Sept 2009 - FIJI SCUBA DIVING - Dive the best of Fiji Diving with Mad Fish Dive Centre, Kadavu, Fiji Islands

Matava named as an Ultimate Eco Escape in Sport Diver Magazine

Sport Diver Magazine - September 2009

Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort is pround to be named as one of the world's Ultimate eco Escapes by PADI Diving Society's SPORT DIVER Magazine in September 2009.

Sport_Diver_Sept_09

Ultimate Eco Escapes - Sport Diver Magazine Sept 2009

We recommend Foxit Reader for pdf reading.

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20070307-foxit



Ultimate Eco Escapes - Sport Diver Magazine Sept 2009 - FIJI SCUBA DIVING - Dive the best of Fiji Diving with Mad Fish Dive Centre, Kadavu, Fiji Islands

Wednesday 16 September 2009

WIN A SEVEN-NIGHT TRIP TO MATAVA—FIJI’S PREMIER ECO ADVENTURE RESORT IN 2ND ANNUAL OCEAN IN FOCUS CONSERVATION PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST

Project AWARE Foundation and SeaWeb’s Marine Photobank are joining forces to host the second annual Ocean in Focus Conservation Photography contest that seeks entries showing the destructive impact on marine environments in order to inspire conservationist actions. Photographers of all experience levels, including conservationists, scientists, divers, travelers and students are encouraged to compete for the contests’ Grand Prize: a diving vacation to Fiji, including a seven-night stay at Matava—Fiji’s Premier Eco-Adventure Resort. Prizes also include sterling silver coral-inspired necklaces from Hannah Garrison, beautiful Bob Talbot prints and carbon offsets from NativeEnergy. Photographers will compete for prizes in two contest categories: Species of Concern/Ecosystem Decline and Humans and the Ocean: Impacts and Solutions.

“This photo contest is geared toward advancing ocean conservation through the power of imagery,” according to SeaWeb President, Dawn M. Marin. “There are many problems to be addressed in the ocean. Anyone who holds a camera in their hand has the power to change the hearts and minds of people around them through the images they capture and the inspiration those images can provide.”

Information: info@matava.com


Tourism Fiji July 2009

Sunday 6 September 2009

Matava is Fiji's first Resort member of The International Ecotourism Society - Matava - Fijis Premier Eco Adventure Resort

Matava recognised as TIES first ever resort member in the Fiji Islands

Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco-Adventure Resort is proud to announce that we are Fiji's first Resort Business member of The International Ecotourism Society (TIES).
The International Ecotourism Society

As the world's oldest and largest international ecotourism association, TIES seeks to be the global source of knowledge and advocacy uniting communities, conservation, and sustainable travel.

A common question asked is what EXACTLY is ecotourism? Ecotourism is: "Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." (TIES, 1990)

TIES promotes ecotourism, which is defined as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people," by:

  • Creating an international network of individuals, institutions and the tourism industry;
  • Educating tourists and tourism professionals; and
  • Influencing the tourism industry, public institutions and donors to integrate the principles of ecotourism into their operations and policies.


The International Ecotourism Society "Uniting conservation, communities and sustainable travel, TIES promotes responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people."
To achieve and maintain membership of TIES Matava must abide by all the Principles of TIES and Ecotourism.

Principles of Ecotourism:The Great Astrolabe Reef in Kadavu, Fiji

Ecotourism is about uniting conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. This means that those who implement and participate in ecotourism activities should follow the following ecotourism principles:
  • Minimize impact.
  • Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
  • Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.
  • Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.
  • Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people.
  • Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climate.
"At Matava, we are of course both happy and proud to be a Resort member of TIES, the world's oldest and largest international ecotourism association." said Matava Director, Mr Richard Akhtar.

"We also see this as a great step forward and opportunity for all Fiji resorts, both on Kadavu and in the Fiji Islands, to move forward in their standards to achieve truly world class service and capabilities required for this membership level and to do it in the true spirit of ecotourism."


Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco-Adventure Resort Mr Akhtar finished by saying "We would like to thank all friends and clients of Matava and Mad Fish Dive Centre past and present who have contributed to the success of our eco resort and we look forward to exciting times ahead."

The International Ecotourism Soceity (TIES) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting ecotourism. Founded in 1990, TIES has been in the forefront of the development of ecotourism, providing guidelines and standards, training, technical assistance, research and publications. TIES' global network of ecotourism professionals and travelers is leading the efforts to make tourism a viable tool for conservation, protection of bio-cultural diversity, and sustainable community development. Through membership services, industry outreach and educational programs, TIES is committed to helping organizations, communities and individuals promote and practice the principles of ecotourism. TIES currently has members in more than 90 countries, representing various professional fields and industry segments including: academics, consultants, conservation professionals and organizations, governments, architects, tour operators, lodge owners and managers, general development experts, and ecotourists.

Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort, is an eco adventure getaway offering you a fun and unique blend of cultural experiences and adventure activities in the environmentally pristine and remote island of Kadavu in the Fiji Islands. Matava - Fiji Premier Eco Adventure Resort is a PADI Dive Resort as well as a Project AWARE GoEco Operator. Matava offers accommodation for up to 22 guests in lush tropical surroundings in traditional thatched Fijian 'bures' with hardwood polished floors, louvre windows and private decks offering privacy, comfort and superb ocean views.

Matava is Fiji's first Resort member of The International Ecotourism Society - Matava - Fijis Premier Eco Adventure Resort

Monday 31 August 2009

Matava Resort- das Tor zum Great Astrolab Reef - Review of Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort, Kadavu Island, Fiji - TripAdvisor

Wir verbrachten auf eine Empfehlung eines Freundes hin über Weihnachten 10 Tage auf Matava - und dies war etwas vom besten was wir je erleben durften!

Das Resort besteht aus etwa 10 im tradtionellen fijijanischen Stil gebauten Hütten mit zum Teil herrlichen Ausblick auf die kleine vorgelagerte Insel und das Meer - alleine auf der Veranda sitzend und den Ausblick genießend könnte man Stunden zubringen. Weiters gibt es eine Gemeinschaftshütte, wo die Mahlzeiten gemeinsam mit allen Gästen eingenommen werden. Auf jeden Spezialwunsch, ob Vegetarier oder Allergien, etc. wird Rücksicht genommen. Das Verhältnis zwischen Gästen und Mitarbeitern ist herrlich entspannt und freundschafltich, alle sind wahnsinnig freundlich, hilfsbereit, immer lächelnd und zu Scherzen aufgelegt.

Die Tauchcrew ist sehr professionell und versucht auf alle Wünsche einzugehen, zum Teil waren wir nur zwei bis drei Taucher plus Guide. Wir hatten dort unsere besten Tauchgänge und wirklich sehr viel Spaß zusammen.

Das Resort legt viel Wert auf Umwelt- und Naturschutz, Strom gibt es nur für die notwendigsten Dinge und man merkt bald, dass es auch nicht viel mehr bedarf um einen super Urlaub zu haben.

Ich kann das Resort und die Insel jedem empfehlen, der gerne abseits der Massen Urlaub macht, Einheimische kennen lernen möchte, es gerne ruhig hat aber auch die Gemeinschaft schätzt, tauchen oder schnorcheln liebt und kein Sonnenanbetender "nur" Strandurlauber ist (Strand auf der gegenüberliegendenen Insel, nur bei Ebbe)!!

Matava Resort- das Tor zum Great Astrolab Reef - Review of Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort, Kadavu Island, Fiji - TripAdvisor

Tuesday 18 August 2009

Fiji one of the Top 5 Countries in CoralWatch

CoralWatch in Action

CALL TO ACTION :
Do you live, work or travel to the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico or Central Pacific?

Scientists from the Coral Reef Watch Program at the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA) predict coral bleaching is likely in those areas. You can take action. The CoralWatch data you report may be more important then ever.

One Ocean

Top 5 Countries where data has been reported

1. Thailand
2. Fiji
3. Australia
4. Vietnam
5. Philippines


CoralWatch - Home

Saturday 8 August 2009

Dive Zero :: Win a Dive Trip to Fiji








Win a dive trip for 2, to Matava, Fiji. See below for details.









Win the Grand Prize in the Dive Village Points comp to the South Pacific's #1 dive
destination FIJI, at Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort, MATAVA.

Private sandy beaches, world-class diving with mantas, “The Critter Junction
colourful house reef on your doorstep, relaxation and year-round adventure! Just
perfect for underwater photography!

• 3 nights Oceanview Bure accommodations for two (2) at Matava - Fiji's
Premier Eco Adventure Resort
• 2 days of 2 tank diving for two
• 2 days of unlimited shore diving for two
• Roundtrip airport boat transfers for two

Valid for travel between: September 30 – December 6, 2009 or
January 9 – March 31 2010.















SO HOW DO YOU WIN?














1. Easy! Go to www.thedivevillage.com and sign up for a free profile. From there, you can post in the forum,




add youtube videos, blogs, comment on videos, add photos, etc...by doing so, you gain points. The points are kept




track of in "My Account" and on the homepage. The top point leader with the most points by




Sept 5th at 9pm Pacific Time, will WIN!




























For more info, photos and videos on this dive trip, check out Matava.com, Scuba-diving-fiji.com, and for videos













If you have any questions, please contact Dive Zero at info@divezero.com or Matava Resort at info@matava.com











Dive Zero :: Win a Dive Trip to Fiji

Ocean in Focus Conservation Photography Contest 2009: win a trip to Fiji

photo contestSeaWeb’s Marine Photobank and Project AWARE Foundation are teaming up to bring you the 2nd Annual Ocean in Focus Conservation Photography Contest. Ocean lovers worldwide-- submit your most compelling marine conservation images to this one-of-a-kind photo contest.

Grand Prize!

  • Seven nights ocean-view accommodations at MATAVA, a premier eco-adventure resort in Fiji. Package includes 5 days 2 tank diving for two and 6 days unlimited shore diving for two as well as roundtrip airport transfers.
  • Carbon Offsets through NativeEnergy from your home and car for one year plus carbon offset for one round-trip air flight.
  • A DVD copy of A Sea Change, The journey of a man and his grandson to uncover the hard science of ocean acidification.

1st Prize (for each category)

2nd Prize (for each category)

Deadline:
August 27, 2009
Submission Guidelines and Categories >>
Rules >>
Prizes >>
Ocean in Focus Conservation Photography Contest 2009: win a trip to Fiji

Monday 3 August 2009

Matava announced as Fiji's newest PADI 5 Star Dive Centre - FIJI SCUBA DIVING - Dive the best of Fiji Diving with Mad Fish Dive Centre, Kadavu, Fiji Islands

Matava awarded Kadavu's first ever PADI 5 Star Dive Centre level for on-site scuba operation, Mad Fish Dive CentreThe Great Astrolabe Reef in Kadavu, Fiji

KADAVU, FIJI ISLANDS - 4 August 2009 - Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco-Adventure Resort is thrilled to announce that we have been awarded the PADI 5 Star Centre membership level for our Scuba Diving Centre Mad Fish Dive Centre.


This Prestigious PADI 5 Star Dive Centre status is awarded, on an annual basis, to progressive PADI Dive Centres that excel in providing dive consumers with a full range of diver education programs, equipment selection, and experience opportunities and that actively promote aquatic environmental awareness.

"We are extremely honored that PADI has selected us to become a 5 Star Dive Centre," said Matava Director and PADI Instructor Development Staff instructor Stuart Gow. "We have made a concerted effort over the past several years to create the best diver training program we could and have invested heavily in training, staff and facilities to do so. We want to thank PADI for acknowledging our efforts and now, with Kadavu's first 5 star rating, hope to bring even more people in the dive industry."

A PADI 5 Star Dive Centre is active in its community presenting a professional image consistent with, or better than, the norm of the marketplace.

PADI 5 Star Centre Award

These dive centers embrace the PADI System of diver education and are committed to providing customers with quality products, services and experiences.
PADI
"At Matava and Mad Fish Dive Centre, we are of course both happy and proud to be awarded this prestigious membership level." said Matava Director, Mr Richard Akhtar.

"By awarding Matava and Mad Fish Dive Centre the 5-Star certification, PADI is really saying we have achieved the best quality and performance rating possible. We have worked very hard to reach that level and will continue to do so."

Ian Cumming, Regional Manager, PADI Asia Pacific said "Congratulations to Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort and their committed dive staff for reaching the level of PADI 5 Star Dive Resort. The prerequisites for this rating can only be achieved through delivering to their guests a high level of diver education, diving experience as well as offering great diving adventures with a sound conservation focus. Having dived with the Matava dive crew myself I know firsthand that their operation is what PADI expects of our 5 Star Dive Resorts!"

"Well done and I wish them all the best in their continued focus on diver education, marine conservation and amazing diving experiences along the Great Astrolabe Reef." he continued.

"We also see this as a great step forward and opportunity for all dive centres, both on Kadavu and in the Fiji Islands, to move forward in their standards to achieve truely world class service and capabilities required for this membership level."

Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco-Adventure Resort Mr Akhtar finished by saying "We would like to thank all friends and clients of Matava and Mad Fish Dive Centre past and present who have contributed to the success of our PADI Dive Centre and we look forward to exciting times ahead."



Matava announced as Fiji's newest PADI 5 Star Dive Centre - FIJI SCUBA DIVING - Dive the best of Fiji Diving with Mad Fish Dive Centre, Kadavu, Fiji Islands

Trend Green and Grow Your Business - Matava - Fijis Premier Eco Adventure Resort

PADI Undersea Journal - 3rd Quarter 2009

Trend Green and Grow Your Business article

Matava highlighted in this recent professional diving journal for PADI Professionals.

Undersea Journal 3Q09

We recommend Foxit Reader for pdf reading.

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20070307-foxit


Trend Green and Grow Your Business - Matava - Fijis Premier Eco Adventure Resort

Saturday 1 August 2009

Matava - is meal plan necessary? - Fiji Forum - TripAdvisor

I had thought that we wouldn't eat that much...I am a caterer, don't eat 3 meals a day....and couldn't wait to see what was for each meal. Not only are they served impecably, by Maggie, but the food is outstanding. Matava is an organic garden...filled with bananas, mangos, just hanging around everywhere. Breakfast was lots of fresh fruit, breads daily, smoothies eggs and savory things. I love eggplant and they made that for ever meal for me. You can ask for anything and they will make it with a smile. Lunch and dinner were amazing. Dinner is by candle light, water is abundant there and they have a great assortment of wines. All kept for you, so you don't have to finish a bottle, with your name on it. My dream is to go back to Matava. We left all our clothes and shoes for the crew and they took them back to the villages. I brought crayons, and gave them to a happy group. We walked to the village, Maggie had some of the kids jump about 70 feet, no lie, doing flips ect. We were the ONLY people in the village, no tour. One day i walked in and we were given leis that the women made.

One day we got back and our bure was filled with flowers, Gardenias, hibiscus all over the floors and bed.

The last night, while sitting on the floor, the crew singing songs for us, they brought out a cake for my husband and I.

I have nothing but the highest praises for Matava and can't wait to go back, enjoy


Matava - is meal plan necessary? - Fiji Forum - TripAdvisor

Thursday 30 July 2009

Another Whale at Matava

According to Ngati Porou Legend, the legend of my tribe, 'Paikea' came to New Zealand from the Pacific Islands on the back of a whale many centuries ago. The whales name was Tohora and he took Paikea to the east Coast of the North Island of New Zealand near to a place now called Gisborne. This is near to where I am from.

When diving this south side of Fiji's southern most Island, Kadavu, which is known as NewZealandi lailai (the small New Zealand), I look South and think about New Zealand and my home. Today being no exception.

Mona and Steve from California were our only diving guests today, so after our first dive we decided to cruise along the water and have our tea and coffee surface interval on the boat. We sat and relaxed in the sun.

All of a sudden a splash from behind the boat. At first we thought it might be a manta ray. It was moving so fast. Our driver Mas slowed down the boat and as soon as he did we saw it surface. A Whale! Not a Pilot whale like last time, this whale was long and sleek, but it never raised its head above the water, we could only see its crescent shaped dorsal fin. Mas stopped the boat. By this point my mask and fins were on and I explained to Mona and Steve that I was getting in the water and they could join me if they wanted to. I was in.

What a strange looking animal, its nose was pointed and sharp, so different from the pilot whales. He had four huge white spots running parallel with his body from his nose to his dorsal fin. Mona and Steve soon joined me in the water and we snorkeled on the surface as the whale eyed us from below. He swam back and fourth beneath us occasionally surfacing but never taking his dark eyes of us. I was not as frozen or petrified as I was when I saw the pilot whales, we swam on the surface for a long time. At one point I saw him slowly moving towards the surface from the deep, I duck dived down to about 8m to get a better look. He swam right up to me, his head touch my feet and then my belly, I reached out my hands to touch his head as he swam under me. Three long ridges ran from his nose all the way to a twin blow hole which looked to be protected by a splash guard just like on a snorkel. Leathery skin so smooth with huge scars and scratches. He swam slowly under me and before I knew it I was holding his dorsal fin. I could see the huge white spots so closely now, they looked like scars. He continued swimming slowly as I held onto the biggest animal I have ever touched, I counted to ten. I could have held on forever but then I remembered I was holding my breath and it was somewhat important for me to surface.He wiggled his body in the water and I took that as a sign that the ride was over, so I let go. He turned around and swam beneath us again, coming and going. I was absolutely in awe of this animal and could not (can not) believe what just happened. After some time we decided to get back on the boat, but he came back, surfacing and gliding silently beneath us, so we got back in just for one last look at this amazing creature. After seeing the pilot whales I never thought I would get an opportunity like that again but here I am less than four days later with a similar story.


I later found out that the Whale that we saw was a Bryde's Whale (Pronounced Brutus), this Whale is known as Pakake in New Zealand and this type of whale can be traced back to some of the oldest legends in Maori culture.

According to Ngati Porou legend, the legend of my tribe 'Paikea' came to New Zealand from the Pacific Islands on the back of a whale many centuries ago. I bet he had an awesome trip.

Contribute to the Ocean in Focus Conservation Photography Contest

Your Chance to Submit Photos
Will Be Gone in a Flash

Contribute to the Ocean in Focus Conservation Photography Contest

 
      
               laysan albatross alive         laysan albatross killed by plastic
 
SeaWeb's Marine Photobank and Project AWARE Foundation
 
encourage you to submit your compelling ocean photos to the
Ocean in Focus Conservation Photography Contest.

 
::
 

Submit your photos that engage viewers
in pressing marine issues and solutions
that address the rapid decline of our ocean's health.

 
::

Submissions must be received by August 27th, 2009.
 
::

Grand prize package includes:
    · Seven nights ocean-view accommodations at MATAVA, a premier eco-adventure resort in Fiji. Package includes five days, two-tank diving for two and six days unlimited shore diving for two as well as round-trip airport transfers.
    · A DVD copy of A Sea Change.
    · 16 tons of Carbon Offsets through NativeEnergy for your home and car for one year, plus carbon offsets for one round-trip air flight.
 
::
 






    Contest Sponsored by:

Marine Photobank Logo       underwaterbook   Project Aware Foundation Logo for Photo Contest                                               
           



  

     Prize Donors Include:

     coral spawning                                                  Matava Eco Resort logo better              
                         


AZU Hannah Garrison logo                            Native Energy Logo for Photo Contest          


Talbot logo      A Sea Change

 
              



Project Aware  |   Marine Photobank  |
  SeaWeb  |   PADI

Photos: Left: Laysan Albatross, Midway Atoll, HI. Jennifer O'Leary. 
Right: Laysan Albatross Chick, Kure Atoll, HI. Claire Fackler, NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries