Where for 6-7 weeks in Fiji?

My wife and I would like to spend February and March in the South Pacific. We'd like to try a resort in the Yasawas, but it's too expensive to stay there for the entire time. We are thinking we should stay at the resort for a week or 2, and then find a vacation rental or similar type of accommodation that will allow us to stay for 6 or 7 more weeks at a lower rate. Where would you suggest we look for this type of longer-term accommodation? It sounds like the Yasawas or Mamanucas are a good choice during this wet season, but is there a particular island or town we should look into? Is the west coast of the main island relatively dry too? We are looking for great beaches, nice walks or hiking, and a town nearby for food. Surfing is a plus.

I suggest a number of places like the following

http://www.keniafijiresort.com/

http://www.owlfiji.com/bobosfarm.htm

http://www.owlfiji.com/caqalai.htm

I realize my reply is late, but I know of very reasonably-priced cottages for rent near me in the Rakiraki / Nananu-ira area (north side of Viti Levu island. They are right on the water, full kitchens, and a nice pool. There are several resorts nearby that have decent restaurants, offer diving, snorkeling (do that on your own easily enough, too). If interested, email me at john at outdoorplace dot org.

John
Rakiraki, Fiji
PS: I do NOT have any financial interest in my recommendation.