Clay-Making and Culture Fiji Tour Including a v Visit to a Family-Run Clay-Making Business

Experience a side of Fiji many visitors don’t see with a visit to a local clay-making business, to witness the unique process for yourself. This Fiji day tour starts with a scenic ride (about 20 minutes) to the lush valley of Nadi, travelling through the charming neighbourhoods of Nadi along the way. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the contemporary clay-makers and the owner himself, Taito Lawakele, who will show you around the work area where you can see the many handmade items on display.

After taking a look around, you’ll get the chance to watch local craftspeople at work, and learn how the clay itself is made. This interesting process involves the use of a variety of soils, which are mixed and packed down before being made into customised products. Pieces are baked at 1,000°C in a gas kiln for more than eight hours, and intricate items include pendants, candle holders, platters, soap dishes, wind chimes, vases, jewellery, and more. Each clay item in the workshop comes with a story behind it.

A visit here is a great chance to see a side of Fiji that goes beyond beaches and palm trees. There’s no better way to know a country and its history then to meet the local artisans. Not only will you be seeing the contemporary clay-makers at work, but you’ll also get the opportunity to try making something out of clay yourself — if you’re feeling creative, that is.

This unique tour is all about interacting with local contemporary clay makers, and learning about the work from the owner himself. His creations are inspired by his surroundings and life in Fiji, and his passion for his art has inspired his fellow workers to think outside the box and have fun along the way. Before we leave to head back to Nadi, you’ll get to take a small part of the island home with you in the form of a beautiful piece of pottery.