~ Uniting eyecare professionals in the heart of the Pacific ~
This ODA conference is proudly co-hosted with:
BULA!
Welcome to the first ODA overseas conference. This exciting two-day event, co-hosted with HOYA, will unite eyecare professionals in the heart of the Pacific for a weekend of learning, networking and cultural experiences. Everyone is invited to attend from Optical Dispensers, Dispensing Opticians, Optical Assistants, Optometrists, Ophthalmologists, Orthoptists, Students and everyone in between.
LOCATION
Hosted at the Tanoa Waterfront Hotel in Lautoka, delegates will enjoy engaging lectures and hands-on workshops all balanced with ample opportunities to relax, connect, and experience the spirit of Fiji. Accommodation is available at the venue and should be booked early to avoid missing out. A special conference rate is available for delegates if booked before the 31st Dec 2025. More info on the hotel can be found below.
CPD
ODA CPD Points will be automatically allocated to ODA members for attending each day of the conference and ODOB accredited CPD credits for New Zealand Dispensing Opticians will be available as per the individual sessions. Australian and New Zealand based Optometrists may claim non-clinical CPD points in accordance with the relevant Optometry board processes and guidelines.
FRIDAY 24 July 2026
All Day: Optional excursion for ODA Members to the Coral Coast on the ODA Bula (mini) Bus. Visit Sigatoka, a local school & Natadola Beach. Limited seats available, must be pre-booked.
SATURDAY 25 July 2026
8.30am: Optional visit to Opticare the Eye Centre in Lautoka to see a Fijian Optometry Practice in action.
10.00am: Conference begins. Lunch and Afternoon Tea included.
5.00pm: Conference concludes for the day.
6.00pm: Optional Lovo Dinner at the College of Theology & Evangelism. Transport & Dinner included when pre-booked.
SUNDAY 26 July 2026
10.00am: Conference begins. Morning Tea and Lunch included.
4.00pm: Conference concludes.
6.00pm: Have a drink on us at the hotel bar.
7.00pm: Optional farewell dinner at the hotel restaurant. (At your own cost.)
ODA Fiji Conference Schedule of Events
ODA Members save 50% off early bird passes and 30% off full price passes. Early bird offer ends 31st January 2026.
Not yet a member? Become an ODA Member today!
Program of Speakers
Bio and Presentation Topics Coming Soon
ODOB approved New Zealand Dispensing Optician CPD points being applied for:
General DO - 8 Pending | Ethical DO - 1 Pending | Cultural DO - 1 Pending
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Optional
Lovo Dinner Add On
Everyone is invited to join us on Saturday night for a group dinner at the College of Theology & Evangelism for a local Lovo feast. The traditional ground oven, slow-cooking process melds flavours together, making the meat melt in your mouth and the vegetables burst with goodness. Return transport from the hotel and dinner are included. Pre-booking and payment during conference registration is required.
Optional
Coral Coast
Add On
If you are in Fiji on Friday, join us for a members only adventure to the Coral Coast before the conference begins. Jump aboard the ODA Bula Bus and enjoy a 2-hour scenic drive to Sigatoka where we will visit a local school, enjoy the Sigatoka markets and get our feet sandy on the beach. Transport is included and lunch is at your own cost. Pre-booking and payment during conference registration is required.
Venue and Accommodation Information
Tanoa Waterfront Hotel, Lautoka
Nestled along the Lautoka waterfront, in Fiji's second largest city, the hotel offers a prime location just minutes away from Lautoka’s vibrant markets, shops, Lautoka wharf and cultural attractions. It’s the best of both worlds - a peaceful retreat and urban adventure.
The hotel is approximately 40 mins drive from Nadi airport and 60 mins to Port Denarau (pending traffic conditions).
Each room offers a harmonious blend of modern amenities and Fijian charm. Enjoy top-tier service and facilities including free Wi-Fi, two outdoor swimming pools, 24hr gym, and restaurant offering a taste of local cuisine.
Delegates can enjoy a discounted rate of FJ$299 (approx. AUD$200) per night for a Superior Room - 1 double & 1 single bed, inclusive of complimentary breakfast and capped free Wi-Fi, if booked prior to 31st December 2025.
To book and receive the special delegate rate, email the hotel directly at waterfront@tanoahotels.com and mention that the booking is for the ODA Conference.
ODA is able to present these incredible opportunities thanks to our outreach partnership with Christian Helps Fiji, a division of Ambassadors For Christ (South Pacific). If you would like to get involved in the 2026 ODA Fiji Outreach 27th July - 2nd August, you can apply HERE
Reminders for International Travellers
Passport & Visas
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date and you have the appropriate visas in place for the duration of your stay.
Travel Warnings
Keep abreast of travel warnings and advisories (including weather) issued by your relevant government and form your own view on the appropriateness of travelling. www.safetravel.govt.nz
Travel Insurance
You should obtain your own comprehensive travel, health/medical and any other insurance cover to cover you for your entire journey. ODA’s insurance will not cover you, your belongings or any part of your trip, including cancellation.
Travel Health
It’s important to prepare before travelling, especially when going overseas, to avoid diseases and health issues. Speak to your Doctor and seek travel health advice.
Flights
Flights are at your own cost. Start looking for flight deals as soon as you have confirmed your attendance. Nadi International Airport is the closest Airport to Lautoka, approx. 40 mins by taxi - depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
International Roaming
Ensure you have international roaming set up on your phone. Contact your mobile provider, to enquire about the associated costs to avoid bill shock when you get home. International eSIMs may also be an option to consider.
Prescription Medicine
Make sure you have enough medication for the duration of your journey and confirm there are no restrictions on bringing your required medication into Fiji. You may need to carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your Doctor.
Accommodation
Accommodation is at your own cost. The conference is being held at the Tanoa Waterfront Hotel in Lautoka. The conference venue has a special rate available to delegates if booked before December 31st 2025. ODA cannot guarantee room availability.
Currency
Visa and Mastercard is widely accepted in Fiji. Ensure you tell your bank when and where you are travelling before departing. Cash can be exchanged at most airports and may be handy for smaller purchases, tipping, taxis, and local markets.