I recognized Namaka Mini Market from the night we took a taxi from the airport to our hotel on Denarau island (FJD35). My first impression was that it was a bit too “proper” for a market, lacking the hustle and bustle of a real market; there was no chaos in sight. It also reminded me of Badung Market in Bali, with the same chill vibe. Still, the Fiji local produce was inviting to be observed, and as usual, I was eager to explore the local market, so off we went in.
Namaka Mini Market is a farmer’s market that sells fresh local produce from vegetables to fruits with an adjoined fish market.
Waka was the most eye-catching item in the market, which was also the most unusual as I had never seen it before. Waka is the root of Kava, the local Fijian drink. So I assumed there were grades of Waka. The better quality it’s, the more expensive it’s. The most costly pure Waka in the market donned the FJD80 price tag.
Then there was Taro, which I could identify after learning about it for the first time in the Rusty’s Market in Cairns, among the freshest and most colourful local produce, including ginger, cut pineapple and bird’s eye chilli. This small but potent chilli ━ Cabe Rawit in Indonesia or Cili Padi in Singapore ━ is spicy AF and has been a constant side of our meals in Fiji. I contemplated bringing back a jar of fresh chilli pickle to Melbourne, but the friendly seller, aunty in the nighty gown, reminded me that I wouldn’t be able to bring it past Australian Customs. Agreed ━ also the risk of getting caught seemed higher in this post-Covid world.
It’s worth noting that everyone in the market was welcoming and friendly. Also, it was interesting to see so many Indians (Fijian Indians) in the market, both as vendors and buyers. It took me back to my time exploring Singapore’s Tekka Market market with Amma, who I bet would love to visit this market.
We also had fresh coconut for the tourist price of FJD5 ━ tourists price.
On the way out, we passed by a local Indian grocery store, Chands Namaka Dairy, which I took a picture of but didn’t think to stop at. I still regret it now. I would love to see the Fijian Indian products sold there and maybe even bring back the legendary tin mutton.
Alas, now I have another reason to go back to Fiji.
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