The eviction of former owners of Matareva Beach Fales Togialelei Matatumua Tavita and Leota Fiau’u Faletoese has left some people from Lefaga disappointed.
Last week Matareva’s official Facebook page had a message from the owners, announcing their last week managing the iconic beach fales in Upolu.
“With much disappointment and heartbreaking” to inform the public that Matareva Beach Fales is no longer operating under their Management.
“This is due to some village issues as many people are aware of [including funding from government, business license etc,”.
One Chief from the village who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of repercussions said as soon as the Village council heard about funding for the tourism sector they wanted to take over.
“This family has been fighting to keep the business afloat despite the Covid-19 restrictions and this is on top of high dees
Heading to Matareva there are two separate fees to pay, at the gate to the village council and the fale upon arrival to the beach.
The access road to the beach fale is managed by the village.
Last year the council increased its fees which left some locals and regulars of Matareva upset, given that yet it is a bumpy road to reach Matareva, and what is supposed to be a five-minute drive turns into a 20-minute drive.
Their last day of management was last week and they are closing all their booking engines, Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms.
“The village is taking over,” the former owners said. They also apologize for the inconvenience caused.”