Current Time in Fiji
Fiji's culture of time
Fiji's culture of time
Adopting Fiji Standard Time (FJT, UTC+12)
Fiji uses Fiji Standard Time (FJT, UTC+12), and in some years, it adopts daylight saving time (UTC+13) during the summer. However, it varies from year to year, as the government decides whether or not to adopt it.
A relaxed sense of time called "Fiji Time"
In Fiji, the term "Fiji Time" is used on a daily basis, and a culture of taking it easy without being rushed by time is deeply rooted. It is common to feel that being late is normal.
Avoiding strong sunlight during the day
Many people are active in the morning and evening to avoid the heat during the day, and the daytime is sometimes used as a time to rest or take a nap. A lifestyle that coexists with the natural environment has been formed.
Fiji's values regarding time
Relationship-oriented time use
The quality of time spent with others tends to be more important than the time of an appointment. When visiting or gathering, you will often be warmly welcomed even if you arrive a little late.
Rushing is not considered a virtue
It is more important to act calmly and carefully than efficiency or punctuality. Even in tourism and work, the attitude of "doing what you can now at your own pace" is preferred.
Time flows according to worship and village gatherings
In particular, in village communities, church worship and communal work time are considered important, and schedules are often built around these events.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or moving to Fiji
Act on the assumption that things will not run on time
It is normal for things such as bus departure times, tour start times, and local events not to start on time. It is necessary to have some leeway in your schedule and be patient.
Be careful about daylight saving time
The introduction of daylight saving time in Fiji changes from year to year, so be sure to check the local time system when you visit. In some cases, the automatic settings on your smartphone alone may not be enough.
Public facilities may close early
Banks and government offices often close early on weekdays, and may not be open on weekends. It is safer to complete administrative procedures in the morning.
Interesting trivia about time in Fiji
"Fiji Time" is also used in tourism campaigns
"Fiji Time," which represents the laid-back national character, is actually used in a slogan for tourists, and "a trip where you forget time" is a selling point.
The implementation of daylight saving time is sometimes decided suddenly
The Fijian government decides to implement daylight saving time every year, and in some cases the implementation is suddenly decided with an announcement several months in advance. It is important to check the information in the local media.
Each island has a slightly different sense of time
Even if it is the same time, there can be differences in the rhythm of activities on the main island (Viti Levu) and on the outlying islands. The more remote the islands are, the more "Fiji time" remains, and the more relaxed the atmosphere feels.