The French claimed New Caledonia in 1853 and their influence has led to the country’s unique identity today. Often described as a slice of Paris in the South Pacific, travellers to New Caledonia find themselves in a climate and location that is definitely tropical, yet the main language is French and the shopping, restaurants and nightlife feel distinctly European.
New Caledonia is made up of the main island, La Grande Terre, and several offshore islands, including the unspoiled Loyalty Islands to the north-east and the Isle of Pines to the south. New Caledonia's cosmopolitan capital, Noumea, is located on the south-east of La Grande Terre and is famous for its French ambience and fine cuisine.
Where is New Caledonia?
Only 3 hours from New Zealand, New Caledonia offers a unique South Pacific holiday. The population of around 200,000 is made up of a blend of Melanesian and French cultures, giving New Caledonia a flavour of its own. From cosmopolitan Nouméa in the south to the remote Loyalty Islands, from high central mountains to low lying tropical atolls, New Caledonia offers the visitor an abundance of holiday options, all in one destination.
General Information
New Caledonia is located just 2½ hours from New Zealand, just north of the Tropic of Capricorn. The main island of Noumea is the capital of New Caledonia; the smaller islands, which make up the remainder of New Caledonia are Isle de Pines and the Loyalty Islands (Lifou, Ouvea & Mare). 500 kms long, 50kms wide, New Caledonia offers an endless variety of landscapes, from some of the best white sand beaches in the Pacific to spectacular mountain retreats.
Surrounded by a 1,600 km long coral reef, New Caledonia also boasts the largest lagoon in the world. New Caledonia is renowned for its designer label shopping, including a range of toiletries and perfumes not available in other Pacific countries. Souvenirs, foodstuffs and wines should also be on the visitor's shopping list.
Major roads on the mainland and other islands are sealed. The roads are in excellent condition and well signposted and driving is on the right hand side of the road. A valid driving licence is requited to rent a car.
Noumea - Noumea has progressively evolved while retaining the successive marks of its past. Noumea is now a garden city, where urbanization and nature blend harmoniously, an attractive modern capital in the South Pacific: France’s showcase in the region. It is a pleasure to stroll through Noumea along the Place des Cocotiers embellished by fabulous flame trees, around its monumental fountain and the old time music kiosk.
Continue along the streets flanked by old colonial houses, the bays highlighted by hibiscus and bougainvilleas, the marina, an inspiring contemporary architectural design and on to beaches gently caressed by the trade winds, for everybody to enjoy, right in the heart of the city!
Isle of Pines - Eighty kilometres south-east of Noumea lies the enchanting Isle of Pines, a place where time seems to stand still in an idyllic setting of white beaches under swaying palms and soaring Araucaria pines. It is as beautiful under water as it is on land and a favourite spot for divers.
To make the most of the Isle of Pines' diversity, ideally you'll need to stay at least two or three days to combine minibus excursions organised by gîtes and hotels, with bicycle rides, walks or car rental trips. Excursions by canoe, glass-bottom boat, yacht, as well as magnificent underwater dives are also available.
Loyalty Islands - Lifou, Mare, and Ouvea - three islands of secret and untouched beauty, three visions of Paradise, so remote and yet so near: the Magic of the Loyalty Islands. The Loyalty islanders have managed to preserve the most powerful traditions of the Territory of New Caledonia, an imaginary environment wrought with myths and legends.
When you visit the Loyalty Islands, you will get to know a people and their beliefs, you will discover Kanak life in all its authenticity, and you will enjoy the natural hospitality of the island people who will receive you like a favoured guest.