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New Caledonia Tourism: The official website for tourism in New Caledonia

⚠ New Caledonia Updates: Tontouta Airport closed until further notice; Limited access to shops and services in Noumea. Tourists urged to minimise movement and await airline instructions. ⚠

NEW CALEDONIA

Don’t be like everyone else and experience several trips in one, unravel the mysteries of this astonishing overseas archipelago, hidden in the heart of the South Pacific! With its UNESCO World Heritage-listed lagoons, explosive cultural mix, vast untouched natural spaces and pleasant temperate climate, New Caledonia offers a tourist experience that’s as exotic as it is varied… in a word, “unique”.

Explore the archipelago

• The Islands
• Great South
• Nouméa French Riviera Being a seaside capital, the city presents an array of sports, cultural activities, delectable dining, and a lively nightlife. Discover the region
• The Islands Idyllic Lagoons From Ouvéa to the Isle of Pines, via Lifou, Tiga, and Maré, the five islands bordering Grande Terre attract visitors in search of wilderness, idyllic beaches, and authenticity. Discover the region
• West coast Cowboy Country Vibrant and dynamic, the West Coast offers a plethora of cultural, natural, and sporting activities. West coast
• East coast Kanak Spirit The East Coast is an ideal destination for immersive tribal getaways, mountain hikes, and refreshing experiences by rivers and waterfalls. Discover the region
• Great South Land of Adventure Here, the arid red earth is adorned with lakes and rivers and surrounded by prehistoric flora. Discover the region

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New Caledonia

New Caledonia Tourism official website

All the practical tips and deals you need for an unforgettable holiday on the “Caillou”!

Why holiday in New Caledonia?

To be different from everyone else, to enjoy multiple holidays in one and to unravel the mysteries of this unique archipelago protected by the world’s largest lagoon. Hidden in the middle of the Pacific to the east of Australia, New Caledonia is a vast, unique and diverse French overseas territory offering an exceptional variety of landscapes, cultures and activities. Nouméa is a modern coastal capital with lots to offer. The islands are picture-postcard perfect with their paradise beaches. The lush East Coast is alive with the Kanak spirit. The West Coast is an opportunity to explore the authentic Wild West inhabited by “bushmen”. Finally, the Great South is an adventurer’s paradise with its myriad of outdoor activities.

Welcome to Singaporeans

Are you ready for the journey of your life? With the opening of a new Singapore-Noumea new direct flight route, be the first to enjoy the most beautiful treasure of the South Pacific: New Caledonia.

Travel inspiration for your next holiday

Visit beautiful beaches.

Fly over incredible scenery

Experience culture

Plan your trip

Before you book the trip of a lifetime to the far side of the world, take the time to research the wide range of tourism options available in New Caledonia. Interested in staying with a friendly local resident or in a comfortable hotel? Want to take a road trip or a domestic flight? Looking for a water sport or an overland hike? Let us be your guide and take advantage of our many special offers.

#NewCaledonia

New Caledonia , a French overseas archipelago , is a year-round destination with a mild climate . Located in the Pacific Ocean , it takes a two and a half hour flight to cover the 1,970 km between Sydney and Nouméa, or the 1,800 km between Auckland and Nouméa, and the time difference is 1 hour. World-renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed lagoon , islands and coral reef , it delights travellers with its majestic and authentic landscapes . Whether you revel in relaxing or adore outdoor activities, come and experience everything the “Caillou” has to offer! Start your adventure in the capital Nouméa and then hit the road for an unforgettable journey through New Caledonia, where the land meets the sea.

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade 195 Lambton Quay Private Bag 18 901 Wellington 5045 New Zealand

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Planning a Trip to New Caledonia from New Zealand

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The South Pacific is a place that many people only get to experience once in their lives, especially if you are from the Northern Hemisphere. After exploring New Zealand , don’t miss the opportunity to discover the island paradises of the South Pacific. One of those paradises is the land of New Caledonia. This guide will give you all the basics you need to know for planning a trip to New Caledonia from New Zealand.

New Caledonia is made up of five main island groups: Grande Terre being the main island, the Loyalty Islands, the Belep archipelago and the Isle of Pines – all having their own remote islands and islets. On the main island alone, there’s a wealth of diverse landscapes and activities from the bustling city of Noumea to the wild south for more wilderness experiences. Beaches, wildlife, food, outstanding accommodations and culture: it’s all there in New Caledonia!

Learn more about the South Pacific islands in our island guides .

Flights to New Caledonia from New Zealand

There a frequent direct flight between Auckland Airport (AKL) in New Zealand and Tontouta Airport (NOU) in New Caledonia. Any flight taken from other New Zealand airports would stop in Auckland. Direct flights take approximately three hours.

Direct flight to New Caledonia from New Zealand are available with the following airlines:

• Air New Zealand

Be aware that the checked-in baggage weight restrictions are usually around 23-46kg (50-101lbs).

Customs Advice

When arriving in New Caledonia, be aware that, much like New Zealand , there are restrictions on bringing in plant, food and animal products. Specifically, cheese and processed meat are banned from being imported. Additionally, plat products like seeds, plants and flowers are prohibited unless you have a permit.

Visas for New Caledonia

First things first, to enter New Caledonia you will need a passport that is valid for at least three months after your departure date from New Caledonia. On top of that, you may need a visa depending on what country you hold a passport for.

Visiting for Less Than Three Months

• French passport-holders do not need a visa
• Passport-holders of European Union and European Economic Area member countries, Switzerland and around fifty other countries (Australia, Canada, U.S., Japan, New Zealand, etc.) do not require a visa. See a full list of countries exempt from the short-stay visa at the French High Commission website .

Supporting Evidence for Short-stay

Although not always necessary, all non-French passport-holders should have some evidence of accommodation while staying in New Caledonia, as well as outward travel tickets.

Visiting for More than Three Months or for Working in New Zealand Caledonia

If you plan to stay in New Caledonia long-term or plan to work while you are in the country, you must apply for a visa with the French Consulate or Embassy in your country of residence, unless you are from a country in the European Union.

A Quick Guide to Destinations in New Caledonia

By “quick” guide, we mean quick guide. To give you a brief idea of the breathtaking destinations you can visit in New Caledonia, here’s a list of the highlights. However, for more information to plan your trip, be sure to check out our New Caledonia – Guide for Backpackers .

Noumea is New Caledonia’s capital and the starting point for most trips to New Caledonia. You’ll find the most “French Flare” in the city with cafes, shops and museums to bring a real European vibe to the South Pacific. As an island though, the best of island life is never too far away with beautiful beaches and lagoons for snorkelling, plenty of walking opportunities to soak in the views and more.

Isle of Pines

A 25-minute flight from Noumea is well worth it to discover the sensational wilderness of the Isle of Pines. The sight of trees emerging from the water is a must-see, as are the views from N’ga Peak. There’s the opportunity to relax on the white powdery sands of the many bays and beaches.

Ouvea Island

Get off the beaten track to this island known as “The Island Closest to Paradise”. You’ll find a wealth of secluded beaches, the most impressive being Fayaoue at 25km (15.5 miles) long.

Mare Island

Mare Island, in the southernmost island group of New Caledonia, is where you’ll get your real cultural experience. Mingle with the locals between days at the beach.

Getting Around New Caledonia

New Caledonia is one of the easiest South Pacific islands to get around. With a good road network, travelling by rental car or by bus is a breeze. Otherwise, to get between islands, you’ll need to take either a boat or a flight.

Getting Around the Main Island (Grande Terre)

Grande Terre and Noumea are the easiest places in New Caledonia to get around offering various transport methods to suit all budgets.

• Rent a car: The road system in New Caledonia is extremely well maintained so getting around by car is one of the most convenient ways to get around Grande Terre.
• Bus: A national bus network will get you to more than 360 stops around the main island on 25 different routes. As for getting around Noumea, the Karuia Bus is the local city bus which will get you around the city in no time.
• Tourist Train: Take this sightseeing transport to see the highlights of Noumea.
• Rent a moped or bike: These are a popular option for getting around Noumea, however, be aware that Noumea is quite hilly so you’ll need to be fit to bike it.
• Taxi: Another quick and convenient transport option in Noumea.

Getting Between Islands

Island-hopping is a way to really immerse yourself in the beautiful island landscapes of New Caledonia. Here are your options to make it happen:

• Flights : The fastest way to travel between islands is by taking a domestic flight. Air Caledonie operates in Magenta airport in Noumea, running flight between the Isle of Pines, the Loyalty Islands (Mare, Lifou & Ouvea) and Noumea. Air Loyaute runs flights between the Loyalty Islands.
• Boat : Another way to get around the islands is by boat. Travel between Isle of Pines, Mar or Lifou on the high-speed passenger boat, Betico.
• Taxi Boats: To visit the off-shore islands of Noumea, there are plenty of private operators taking you in taxi boats to secluded islands.

More About the South Pacific Islands

5 south pacific islands that are awesome for backpackers.

• How to Plan a Trip to Hawaii from New Zealand
• Vanuatu – Guide for Backpackers

Fiji – Guide for Backpackers

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• South Pacific Pocket Guide (Regional tourism website)
• Pacific Tourism Organisation (Regional tourism website)

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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New Caledonia Adventure

6 days | escape to a pure and natural island paradise.

Enter a country often overlooked in the South Pacific – a place full of endemic rainforest, Melanesian culture and truly unforgettable beaches. Welcome to New Caledonia! On this six-day adventure, you’ll have the chance to snorkel through transparent waters over coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, meet local makers and experience the longstanding tribal Kanak traditions with an overnight village stay. This well-paced trip takes you from the bustling French-influenced hub of Noumea along the west coast, with excursions to Blue River National Park and Giant Fern Park. With plenty of quality inclusions, time to relax beachside and a knowledgeable local leader every step of the way, your island escape is the perfect mix of rest and play.

Trip overview

• With a maximum group size of only eight people, you'll have the opportunity to have a real personal experience of this often visited (but seldom truly explored) destination.
• Visit a remote tribal village in the New Caledonian foothills and see what it’s like to live among the local Kanak tradition. Learn the lifestyle and customs of these communities and spend the night in a traditional fare house.
• New Caledonian beaches are the stuff of dreams. Go snorkelling and swimming on the lagoons of Poe Beach – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and see the highlights of Bourail, like Turtle Bay and Nera Beach.
• Gaze in awe at the diverse landscapes of this island nation, from the mighty Kaori trees in the Blue River National Park to lush rainforest and endemic plant species in the Giant Fern Park near Farino.
• Your leader has got you front of mind to ensure you get the best out of your stay. Learn about the region's cultures, traditions and way of living as you travel along the coast and get the low-down from someone who lives and breathes New Caledonia.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.
• Accommodation is in no-frills, simple hotels and bungalows. This trip stays away from big resorts and focuses on local family-owned accommodation so you get to see the true New Caledonia, and travels around the country in a comfortable mini van.
• As food options are sometimes limited in New Caledonia, many meals are included in this itinerary. Please note that, outside of Noumea, most dinners are eaten at your accommodation. You'll have the chance to try a variety of cuisines, from Indigenous Kanak food during your village stay, farm to plate meals and fine French dining.
• Snorkelling equipment is not available for hire locally. If you would like to snorkel during your time in New Caledonia, please bring your own mask, snorkel, reef shoes and/or fins.
• If you'd like to extend your travels in the South Pacific, you might like to consider our 14-day Vanuatu & New Caledonia Adventure. Search trip code TESVC on our website.

Bonjour! Welcome to the laidback shores of Noumea, New Caledonia. There are no activities planned for today except for your welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, you can explore New Caledonia’s main city – maybe visit the Tjibaou Cultural Centre, Museum of World War II or St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Cathedral. The market at Port Moselle is a great place to go people-watching, as well as see all the tropical produce, seafood and souvenirs on offer.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Noumea - Moselle Market - Free
• Noumea - Saint Joseph’s Roman Catholic Cathedral - Free
• Noumea - Tjibaou Cultural Centre - XPF500

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

An arrival transfer is not included but can be arranged for you at an extra cost. Please note that Noumea’s main gateway, La Tontouta International Airport, is situated approximately 1 hours drive from your accommodation in Noumea. Speak to your booking agent if you wish to organise a transfer.

After breakfast, join your small group on a drive into the secluded Blue River National Park. This spectacular slice of nature in New Caledonia’s centre is a sanctuary of local flora, wildlife and biodiversity. Deep red earth contrasts with striking green mountainscapes and lakes in this provincial park, which is approximately 9000 hectares of untouched national land. Head deep in the park on foot and in a 4WD, stopping by the Guepyville and Drowned Forest lookouts across the wooden Perignon Bridge and along the Cagou Birds Trail, hopefully spotting iconic Caledonian birdlife. Find a scenic spot by the riverside and enjoy an included French-style picnic provided by your guides. Continue into the rainforest through the Giant Kaori trees dotted through the canopies, looking out for the cagou birds high above and then maybe stop for a refreshing swim. Later, return to Noumea for a free evening.

• Blue River National Park - Guided eco tour & picnic

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today, leave Noumea behind and drive to Boulouparis. When you arrive, hop on a boat with your group for about 30 minutes to the natural marine reserve of Tenia Islet. From here, you can choose to go on a self-guided snorkelling adventure with the colourful fish or, alternatively, head out on an island walk. When you’ve had your fill of activities, sit down for a picnic lunch with your leader before heading back to Boulouparis. Drive to Bourail, where you’ll spend the night, stopping at Fort Teremba on the way – this old prison once housed convicts in the 1880s. Dinner is included tonight at the lodge.

• Bungalow (1 night)
• Boulouparis - Boat trip to Ténia Islet & picnic lunch
• Moindou - Fort Teremba
• Tenia Islet - Snorkelling or island walk - Free

Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours. Snorkelling equipment is not provided, so bring your own from home or check in advance with your leader about hiring locally.

This morning after breakfast, you’ll head out to see some of the highlights of the seaside, including Turtle Bay and Nera Beach. Go on a few short walks and lap up the gorgeous ocean scenery. Head to the picturesque Poe Beach – a UNESCO World Heritage site – for lunch with a view. The beach is only 2 km away from the barrier reef, so this is a gorgeous spot for a swim, too! After, you’ll visit the Parc des Grandes Fougeres, or Giant Fern Park, for a guided walk deep in the lush rainforests. Your local guide will take you through parts of this World Heritage-listed site, featuring around 13,000 species of fern, 70% of which are endemic. Later this afternoon, head to a remote Kanak Village for a memorable night with local villagers. Deep in the foothills of New Caledonia’s mountain range, these villages are a haven for nature lovers. You’ll be welcomed into tribal culture, learning about the customs and traditions of the local people. Tonight, you’ll stay in simple dormitory-style accommodation in a fare (village house) and be treated to the traditional dish bougna for dinner.

• Fare (1 night)
• Bourail - Turtle Bay & Nera Beach
• Bourail - Poe Beach
• Kanak Village - Cultural experience & traditional dinner
• Farino - Giant Fern Park guided rainforest tour

This morning, you’ll have breakfast with the group and then head out on a walk to a local waterfall. When you return to the village, take some time to learn about daily life here – Kanak communities across New Caledonia comprise around 44% of the island population and share significant connections to spirituality and the land. You’ll sit down with your hosts for a homemade lunch of local, organic food, which is a great chance to swap stories. Later, say goodbye to your hosts and return to Boulouparis, then on to Noumea for your final night.

• Kanak Village - Waterfall walk & traditional lunch

With no activities planned for today, you’re free to leave the group after breakfast this morning. That doesn't mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you would like to spend more time in Noumea, just speak to your booking agent to organise additional accommodation.

5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners

Private vehicle, Boat

Hotel (3 nights), Fare (1 night), Bungalow (1 night)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1.A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 4 in the tribal homestay and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. Snorkelling equipment is not available for hire locally. If you would like to snorkel during your time in New Caledonia, please bring your own mask, snorkel, reef shoes and/or fins.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Discover Noumea, New Caledonia

Air New Zealand flies non-stop from Auckland to New Caledonia . Domestic connections are available from Air New Zealand serviced airports. The Auckland to Noumea flight time is 3 hours and 10 minutes. You can choose the way you fly on all our flights to the Islands.

New Caledonia travel delivers a unique Pacific experience, where Melanesian and French cultures combine to offer welcoming hospitality and a blissful holiday lifestyle. Coral-sand beaches, palm trees, turquoise lagoons, European-style shopping and wonderful restaurants - you can have them all in this charming tropical paradise. Adventure is calling too, with coastal road journeys on Grande Terre and marine excursions to the outer New Caledonia islands. 

Six areas of New Caledonia have been declared treasures of the world by UNESCO. The best way to see these remarkable places is from a yacht, either with a skipper or as a bare-boat charter.

If you're interested in cheap flights to Noumea from Auckland, we run regular special offers. You can sign up for alerts to receive early notice of cheap airfares to New Caledonia. You can also sign up to our email database to receive regular updates about fares, packages, competitions and exclusive offers.

It's easy to assemble holiday packages for New Caledonia using our site. During the flight booking process, you'll have the option of adding travel insurance and/or a rental car. After you've completed payment, we'll give you the option of booking accommodation through Expedia.

New Caledonia flights from New Zealand land at La Tontouta International Airport, which is a 35-minute drive from downtown Noumea.

Where to go and what to see in New Caledonia

Of all the reasons tourists visit New Caledonia, number one is tropical Frenchness. This Pacific country is one-of-a-kind in the world, offering a holiday experience that's memorable for European style layered with idyllic Pacific scenery and relaxation.  Check out the top 10 things to do in New Caledonia.

Your holiday can be centred on Noumea, the capital of New Caledonia, or you can easily travel further to an outer island or add a road trip around Grande Terre, the main island. Fast ferries link Noumea with the Isle of Pines, Mare and Lifou. You can also catch domestic flights to a number of island and mainland towns. Renting a car and driving around Grande Terre is a leisurely way to discover more of New Caledonia. The roads are mostly sealed and traffic is light. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.

French culture in New Caledonia

New Caledonia is described as a 'special collectivity of France', which is an elegant way of saying the archipelago is a French overseas territory. While the official language is French, English is sometimes spoken in resorts and urban areas. Brush off your high-school French, bring your French phrasebook or use Google Translate on your phone to communicate with the locals. They're famously patient and will be glad you're making an effort.

Apart from language, the Frenchness of New Caledonia is most obvious in Noumea. You'll find marvellous restaurants that put a tropical spin on French cuisine, wonderful patisseries for cakes and pastries, authentic boulangeries (bakeries) for baguettes that taste as good as those baked in Paris, and fashion stores that sell European brands. When you're strolling down Rue de l'Alma and Rue de Sébastopol, look for Mango, Etam and Okaïdi. You'll also find high-end pret-à-porter boutiques in the city neighbourhood of Alma. As with Paris, there is a Latin Quarter in Noumea - definitely the place for unique purchases and window shopping. La Promenade in Anse Vata is another excellent shopping destination, known for luxury shops and haute couture.

For some French colonial Instagram shots, look for the old Noumea City Hall, Chateau Hagen and Maison Celieres. Bernheim Library and Noumea Cathedral also deserve some photo time. And make a point of visiting Faubourg Blanchot, the bourgeois (upmarket) neighbourhood of the city in the late 19th century. There are around 60 colonial homes and four other historical buildings here, all tied together with a walking trail produced by Noumea City Council.

Foodie heaven

Of course, the quickest route to French flavour in Noumea is through food. As well as delectable imported ingredients and artisan products, there's an excellent supply of local ingredients to keep the restaurants and food stores well-stocked. While holidaying in New Caledonia, you'll come across locally-grown tropical fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat and aromatics, such as vanilla.

If you plan to do some self-catering during your holiday, you'll discover rich pickings at the Port Moselle Market. Arrive early if you can, because produce sells quickly. Then find a boulangerie for baguettes the way they should be - skinny with a slightly chewy crust and deliciously soft interior. Pick up some croissants too, as well as a few choux pastries for dessert. Also look out for traiteurs, caterers who sell ready-made delights such as paté, terrines and duck confit. And have fun browsing a Noumea supermarche (supermarket) for the basics, as well as take-home meals that make dining in easy.

Quintessential restaurant experiences in Noumea include Les 3 Brasseurs, where you'll find flammekueche - an ultra-thin pizza from Alsace; Le Roof, which overlooks the water and is built in the style of a Melanesian house; and Le Rocher Creperie, located up the hill between the town's two main beaches. For a splurge evening, book a table at L'Hippocampe or L'Alinea for tropical French food at its best.

Outdoor adventures on land and sea

It's easy to enjoy the marine environment that laps at the edges of Noumea. You can catch a Coconut taxiboat to explore the lagoon, go fishing on a charter launch, rent a stand-up paddle board or sea kayak, or get airborne above the waves on a paraglider. To see the perfect little desert island, complete with lighthouse, take a day trip to Amedee - it's one of the best things to do in New Caledonia.

Land-based adventures easily accessed from Noumea include horse riding, mountain biking, hiking and hunting. As well as being great fun, these experiences give you a chance to interact with local guides, who are often of Kanak descent. A 'best of' list would include the Grande Randonnée   hiking route, riding horses along the beaches of the Lebris Peninsula and biking Les Boucles de Tina, a network of trails in Noumea. For the super-athletic, the Trans-Caledonian is a two-day race event that's as scenic as it is challenging.

Six areas of New Caledonia have been honoured as treasures of the world by UNESCO. The Entrecasteaux Reefs, Great Northern Lagoon, Northeast Coastal Region, Ouvéa and Beautemps-Beaupré atolls, Western Coastal Region and the Great Southern Lagoon are now listed among the planet's 200 leading natural heritage sites. The best way to see these remarkable places is from a boat, either with a skipper or as a bare-boat charter. There are several charter boat companies in Noumea, based at Port Moselle and Baie des Citrons.

Essential information

Best time to go

The New Caledonia climate is best-described as 'semi tropical'. The average temperature year-round is 24°C. In the warmest months, December to March, daily temperatures get into the high 20s and rainfall is more frequent. In the cooler months, June to August, the average is in the low 20s and there's less rainfall.

How much will it cost

The local currency is the Pacific French Franc.  Hotel and food costs are comparable to New Zealand and Australia, with savings if you eat local produce and choose cheaper accommodation than the international-style resorts.

Air New Zealand - seven times Airline of the Year winner

Airline of the Year and Best Economy Class by Airlineratings.com. New Zealand's Employer of the Year by Ranstad. Top Cabin Concept for Skynest at Crystal Cabin Awards. And much more .

Keep exploring New Caledonia

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FAQ about travelling to New Caledonia

We recently travelled to New Caledonia, and as promised in South Pacific Travel Tips , we’re here to share our experience and learnings.

We spent seven nights in this beautiful South Pacific country, staying in three different accommodations and using practically every type of transport to help us answer your questions.

We loved our visit to New Caledonia!

With delicious food, beautiful beaches and a touch of French je ne sais quoi, this tropical getaway is easily accessible from places like New Zealand and Australia , while feeling like a world away.

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FAQ about visiting New Caledonia

Is New Caledonia really as expensive as they say?

How should you split your time?

Is Nouméa worth seeing?

Join us as we share our thoughts, helping you plan a worthwhile stopover or vacation.

Keep in mind… these are our personal thoughts following a relatively short vacation. We’d love for you to join our Facebook group to ask any other questions you have and to get other perspectives.

Transport in New Caledonia

How do you get from the international airport to the city.

Tontouta International Airport is located a 40-minute drive north of Nouméa, the largest city in New Caledonia.

A shuttle is the most common way to get into the city.

When we visited, tickets for the Arc en Ciel shuttle cost XPF 2,500 one-way (NZD 38/USD 22) per person.

They have an office at the airport (turn right as you exit the building), so advance bookings are not required when you first arrive.

However, you’ll need to book your return shuttle ticket online, so they know where/when to pick you up. Try to do so with more than 24 hours’ notice.

Taxis, private transfers and rental cars are also suitable transport options from the airport.

Is it worth hiring a car in New Caledonia?

When you don’t need a car.

Many people can visit New Caledonia without needing a rental car.

If you’re planning to spend your time in Nouméa (which is where many of the hotels are) and/or on the smaller islands, chances are, you can make do without a rental.

After riding the shuttle to town, you’ll find buses and taxis readily available.

Many restaurants and accommodations are within walking distance too, and as the waterfront walk is flat and beautiful, it’s a nice place to go for a wander.

Or, if you’re headed for the domestic airport (which is about an hour’s drive from the international airport), you’ll hop on the shuttle and then on a domestic flight, in which case, you probably won’t need a rental car… unless you want to explore further afield once you get to your final island destination, that is.

When you might need a car

If you plan to visit resorts or accommodations outside of Nouméa or want to explore the outer islands in more detail, a rental car could be a great option.

Likewise, if you’d like to camp in New Caledonia , a rental car will help you travel the relatively large distances between some campsites.

You don’t necessarily need a rental for the duration of your visit though.

We arranged a rental car for the first two days of our trip. We picked it up at the airport, headed 2 hours north (where we stayed for two nights) and then drove ourselves to the domestic airport.

We were happy being car-less for the remainder of our New Caledonia travels.

Did you know? They drive on the right-hand-side of the road in New Caledonia and practically all cars have a manual gearbox.

Do you need an international licence (IDP)?

Because French is the main language in New Caledonia, you do need an international driver’s licence if your licence is in any language other than French.

So, if you’re travelling from New Zealand, Australia, or the US, for example, and your home licence is written in English, you will need an IDP.

With that said, when we showed our IDP at the rental counter, the lady there wasn’t at all interested – she only needed our home licences.

However, should we have had an accident, an IDP would have been required by the police, and might have been requested by our insurance company.

So though you probably won’t be asked for one, we always recommend travelling with an IDP (which acts as an official translation), if the country you are driving in speaks a language that’s different to your own.

For the cost of an IDP, it’s not worth the risk if something goes wrong.

Note: an IDP is not a driver licence. It’s a translation of your driver licence and is only valid while the accompanying driver licence is current. You must always carry both your [home] licence and the IDP while you’re driving. NZ Transport Authority

Spending in New Caledonia

What currency do they use there.

Local currency is known as CFP (Collectivités françaises du Pacifique) or XPF – or more commonly, as the Pacific franc.

It is used by the islands in French Polynesia.

What’s the best way to pay for things?

Cash is widely accepted, but seldom needed. The only time that we needed cash on our week-long visit was for a taxi ride.

The rest of the time we used our New Zealand credit card.

We would typically use our Wise card when travelling abroad, however, at the time of our visit, XPF wasn’t supported. Because of these, we used our normal credit card to get Airpoints.

We were not charged additional credit card fees anywhere in New Caledonia, so just had the normal international fees charged by our bank.

Is New Caledonia an expensive place to visit?

New Caledonia is an expensive place to visit!

Having visited over 75 countries, New Caledonia would be up there as one of the most expensive we’ve experienced.

The following figures give a real-life indication as to what things cost there.

If you’re travelling on a budget, we’d encourage you to head along to the supermarket once you arrive to self-cater where possible (this is much more difficult in the resorts).

You can also take snacks from home – this helped save us money when we were hungry between meals.

The cost of food

A kebab with chips and a 250mL Coke cost us XPF 2,500 (NZD 38/USD 22) at a takeaway store. The same for a poke bowl and can of Coke in town.

A frozen cocktail at the resort was approximately XPF 1,950 (NZD 29.40/USD 17.40).

Two mains, a shared ice cream and a can of Pepsi cost us XPF 7,340 (NZD 110.70/USD 65.50) at Le Méridien Ile des Pins… and that was ordering a burger from the snack menu. Had I ordered a normal main, it would have been another XPF 1,000 more!

On the bright side, though, most of our meals were generously sized, so we didn’t need entrées or desserts to fill up.

With a big buffet breakfast, we generally managed to share a lunch without going hungry.

The cost of accommodation

We booked entry-level rooms for two adults at each of the following locations…

Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort

NZD 430/night (studio unit including breakfast).

Le Méridien Ile des Pins

NZD 560/night (studio unit including breakfast).

Do I need a meal package at Ile des Pins?

We priced up the meal package at Le Méridien Ile des Pins and found that, for us, it would be significantly cheaper to purchase meals as we needed them.

For a meal package to make sense for us, we needed to eat multiple courses at each sitting, and given the size of the portions (and our free included breakfast), there really wasn’t a need to commit to full-board.

Unless you’re a big eater, a full-board meal package is unlikely to be more affordable than paying for what you eat from the menu.

Chateau Royal Beach Resort And Spa, Nouméa

NZD 325/night (one-bedroom suite, not including breakfast).

The cost of transport

Our rental car cost NZD265 for three days (total included mileage 450km).

We thought domestic flights were surprisingly affordable, paying NZD 250 per person to fly Noumea to Ile des Pins return.

We could have got them for a bit less than that had we booked earlier too.

Do you need to tip there?

Tipping is not expected or common in New Caledonia – but there is one exception…

Hotels and resorts often add a service charge (and a tax) to the advertised nightly rate.

We booked directly with two hotels and both charged these fees in addition to our stay, so keep an eye out for additional costs. Only one hotel (booked through Expedia ) didn’t add a service charge.

All three hotels also included the option to add a tip to bar/restaurant bills.

Remember though, this isn’t expected so don’t feel bad leaving it off if you’d prefer not to tip.

How to split your time in New Caledonia

Is it worth spending a night or two on grand terre (the main island).

We enjoyed Grand Terre and would recommend spending some time there, but it depends on what you want from your vacation.

• Grand Terre is nice but it doesn’t have the same beautiful outlook as the outer islands.
• The city of Nouméa itself isn’t much to get excited about.

Depending on your thoughts on these points, how much time you have and your budget, you should have your answer as to whether it’s worth spending time on Grand Terre.

Is safety a concern in Nouméa?

We had no safety concerns at any point during our trip to New Caledonia.

We’d been told by a friend that they felt a little unsafe during their visit to central Nouméa years ago, but we didn’t feel that on our recent visit.

We walked through a few fairly large groups of men in the centre of town, which might have been intimidating if I were travelling by myself (or if it were late at night), but they gave us no cause for concern.

They gave us a friendly ‘bonjour’ as we continued on our way.

With that said, we always recommend taking sensible precautions when travelling – particularly after dark.

Do you need to worry about sea creatures in the ocean?

The waters around New Caledonia are home to a number of potentially dangerous sea creatures, including sea snakes, jellyfish, sharks, lionfish and pufferfish.

These sea creatures all pack a punch if you get on the wrong side of them – whether that be their sting or bite – but are they a genuine concern to visitors?

2023 saw a number of shark attacks near Nouméa and, as a result, some of the main beaches were closed for swimming . These beaches have since reopened with shark nets to improve safety for swimmers.

When we were there, we didn’t see any sharks (nor did we hear of any reported sightings).

Our resort at Isle of Pines mentioned that some bluebottle jellyfish had been spotted in other parts of New Caledonia, and sure enough, we saw two when we were out snorkelling.

Don’t let jellyfish put you off though – just keep your eyes near the surface. From above, you’ll notice their bodies (they look like little plastic bubbles floating on the water) and under the water, you’ll see their blue stingers.

If you see a jellyfish, just give it plenty of space.

We didn’t see any sea snakes on our visit, though another swimmer at the Le Méridien Ile des Pins beach did.

Sea snakes are generally afraid of people though, so if you give them a wide berth, you really don’t have anything to worry about.

Although sea snakes are venomous, they are extremely hesitant to bite and rarely inject humans, even when they do. Despite their venom, sea snakes prefer to avoid humans and don’t bite unless provoked. In fact, decades often pass without a single reported death from a sea snake bite. A-Z Animals

The same goes for lionfish and pufferfish, both of which are poisonous but not generally interested in people.

Can you drink the water in New Caledonia?

We were offered tap water at all the restaurants we visited and had no issues drinking tap water in our accommodations.

We really enjoyed our visit to New Caledonia and would recommend it as a great South Pacific holiday destination.

You’re you’re considering a visit, drop us a line in South Pacific Travel Tips on Facebook – we’d love to help plan your trip!

Founder of one of Aotearoa's most popular and helpful Facebook travel planning groups, Sarah shares reliable information and discounts around New Zealand. As an experienced tour guide, travel writer and airline reservations consultant, she enjoys bringing you the best of New Zealand.

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Each island of the French archipelago has its own unique charm and character. The sprawling main island of Grand Terre, with its tropical metropolis of Noumea, is a place where French architecture and dining clash spectacularly with native culture. Meanwhile, the intense wild allure of the eastern islands is inexplicable and unforgettable. Lush forests give way to pristine stretches of white sand and crystal-clear waters, creating the most surreal and uninhibited natural beauty. New Caledonia is unlike anything you have ever experienced, and you’ll love your holiday here no matter where you stay.

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The gorgeous city of Noumea is a gem of wealth and culture in the South Pacific. New Caledonia's capital city, located on Grand Terre Island, is the true artistic centre of the country. French fashion, dining and sophistication soaks into almost every hotel, restaurant, and bar. Inviting beaches are home to hives of activity and the perfect places to lounge after a day of indulgence.

Grand Terre

The main island of Grand Terre is the absolute encapsulation of everything you are bound to love about New Caledonia. To the east, explore the breathtaking central mountain range and lush rainforests. To the west, discover the sublime World Heritage-listed lagoon and spectacular reef. The ancient earth and waterfalls of the Great South are a dazzling palate of red and blue.

Isle of Pines

Located in New Caledonia's south, the Isle of Pines is as close as you can get to paradise on earth. Marvel at the pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. Trek through the ruins of the first penal colony, which stands hauntingly in the overgrowth of the forests. Then relax in the serene natural seawater swimming pool. The isle is extravagant and effortlessly breathtaking.

Loyalty Islands

The Loyalty Islands are a place of culture and harmony. The native Kanak tribes that inhabit the island are warm and welcoming. Stay overnight in a traditional tribal village and live as the locals do, in a charming timber bungalow. Feast on local cuisine as you're regaled with tales of myth and legend, handed down for generations. The Loyalty Islands are truly a place of magic.

Frequently asked questions

When you're packing for a trip to New Caledonia, don't forget the essentials like your passport, phone, chargers, camera, sunblock, some CFP Francs and the correct power adaptor. From there, we recommend packing a towel, plenty of bathing suits, insect repellent , a hat, jandals, some walking shoes and a great book to enjoy as you relax by the water.

New Caledonia's island archipelago is the perfect place to enjoy idyllic ocean life and a unique mix of European and Melanesian culture. During your stay, experience the French island city of Noumea, go snorkeling and surfing in Bourail and head inland to enjoy river hikes and adventures in Dumbea .

Our latest info can be found in our Help Centre here

The best time to dive into postcard-perfect weather and enjoy calm ocean waters in New Caledonia is between September and November. Just keep in mind that everyone loves coming at this time, so those keen to avoid crowds may prefer to visit between February and July. 

Spend your days in New Caledonia hitting the reset button and submitting to life in the slow lane. Nature lovers can live their best life snorkelling, hiking, paddle boarding, diving and enjoying a bevvy of water and land-based activities. Beyond that, foodies will delight at the fusion of French and Melanesian cuisine, while history lovers can explore museums and architecture to learn more about Kanak culture.   

With years of experience under our belts, and a decent tan to show from our time spent relaxing on tropical beaches, our Flight Centre Travel Experts are the perfect people to ask about your holiday package to New Caledonia. From family holidays to adventure trips, cruise stopovers and romantic stays, we can easily curate a New Caledonian holiday package to meet your needs.  

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If you’re planning a trip to New Caledonia and curious about the accommodation choices available, you’re in for a delightful surprise. The range of accommodations on Grande Terre and the surrounding islands is extensive and diverse, catering to every preference and budget. Whether you’re into camping beneath the stars, indulging in international resort luxury , experiencing tribal stays , or seeking unique forest dwellings, you’ll discover a wide array of options. Our articles dedicated to each accommodation type will assist you in making an informed choice. To find your ideal place to stay in New Caledonia, explore our dedicated pages.

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New Caledonia: New Zealand, Australian Defence Force waiting to assist stranded travellers

Thomas Bywater

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The Australian Defence Force has said it is readying flights to assist the departure of travellers trapped in New Caledonia by civil unrest. Photo / Emma Schwenke, Australian Defence Force

As Noumea’s airports remain closed and New Caledonia ‘s civil unrest extends to a seventh day, New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) says it is exploring possible options to bring stranded Kiwis home.

This includes possibly using New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and Australian Defence Force (ADF) aircraft preparing to fly to the island.

On Sunday evening, the ministry updated its Safe Travel advice, saying that Air Force repatriation flights were ready to depart for New Caledonia, pending a green light from France .

“New Zealand authorities have now completed preparations for flights using NZDF aircraft to bring home New Zealanders in New Caledonia while commercial services are not operating.”

The ministry was aware of 250 New Zealanders on New Caledonia, registered with the Safe Travel website .

This comes as Australia also said it was also waiting for approval to send Defence Force aircraft to bring citizens home, while commercial flights were suspended.

Last night Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said that aircraft were on standby to fly to the aid of trapped expats and travellers.

“ French authorities advise the situation on the ground is preventing flights. We continue to pursue approvals,” she said.

There are thought to be around 300 Australians trapped in New Caledonia.

The ministry told the Herald in a statement it was working with the ADF to uplift international visitors who had been left without a way off the islands.

“New Zealand is exploring possible options, including working alongside Australia and other partners on their planning, to help get New Zealanders in New Caledonia home.”

However, no Defence Force flights had been confirmed yet.

The ability for any “assisted departure flights” is still subject to safe access to La Tontouta International Airport, which is currently closed to commercial aircraft.

French police were reportedly working to break through road barricades which were blocking roads through Noumea and access to the airstrip.

MFAT’s Safe Travel advice is for New Zealanders to register their details and intended dates of departure with their website, in order to keep updated with options for assisted departure.

“The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade will be in contact when further information is available.”

Defence Minister Judith Collins told Newstalk ZB’s Mike Hosking this morning that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has been working with the French Government to approve any repatriation flights to New Caledonia.

“Stay in your own home, don’t go out unnecessarily and understand that help is coming,” said Collins.

Why is New Caledonia seeing violent riots?

The French overseas territory was set to vote on constitutional reform last Tuesday, with a bill to allow more French residents and arrivals living on the islands for over 10 years electoral rights in New Caledonia.

Protestors and pro-independence movements said this would dilute the voice of locals and indigenous New Caledonians demonstrated against the bill which had been passed in the French metropole 17,000km away. The general strike turned deadly last week and additional 1000 police were flown in from France to support authorities in Noumea.

France has said La Tontouta International Airport will not open to the public before at least 9am tomorrow morning. However there were still barriers to restarting scheduled commercial flights.

On Wednesday, CCI New Caledonia said that due to “major disruption” flights into La Tontouta would be paused “passengers are encouraged to contact their airline directly.”

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Macron heads to riot-hit New Caledonia as Australia, New Zealand evacuate tourists

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Australians still stranded in New Caledonia await more evacuation flights

Stranded Australian tourists in riot-stricken New Caledonia are still unsure when they will be evacuated, despite French authorities offering seats on departure flights to some travellers.

The Australian government evacuated 84 Australians and 24 foreign nationals from New Caledonia's capital Noumea  on Tuesday on military transport planes.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said a French government-assisted flight landed in Brisbane late on Wednesday carrying 103 Australians and their families.

As Australians continue to make it home, some the ABC spoke to said they had been notified of French government flights, but it was not clear what time they would depart.

Tylah Carre, an Australian tourist in Noumea, said he received a text from French authorities saying they would "conduct flights for [their] safe departure".

"But we don't know if we have six hours or just an hour, like yesterday when people were told there's a bus downstairs," Mr Carre said.

"Many are staying in their rooms in case they get the call."

'We lost hope'

Janine Banks, another Australian tourist, said she was frustrated with the communication from the Australian government.

She said she hadn't received any information from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade until about 9pm on Tuesday night and relied on WhatsApp for updates from other tourists.

"We were told Monday night to be ready for evacuation on Tuesday, so we packed and waited by the phone all day."

She then heard no updates during the day.

"We lost hope after the 6pm curfew," Ms Banks said.

Ms Banks had initially booked a trip to Vanuatu but her flight plans changed when Air Vanuatu went bust .

Queensland academic Nicole George was teaching in Noumea when rioting erupted last week.

She was hoping to be one of the more than 100 Australian residents who were repatriated on the two ADF flights overnight.

"Yesterday was a hard day because we were thinking we might get home," Ms George said.

Pacific Minister Pat Conroy said the French government was "currently planning flights to Brisbane today, using their resources".

"So the primary plan is more French flights," he said.

"But we do have contingency plans and we do have planes on stand-by should there be an issue with that course of action."

He added a French plane was due to leave for Brisbane on Wednesday afternoon or evening and evacuate about 100 Australians.

"So bringing it to around 184 Australians roughly, brought home over the last day or two."

Kid-free holiday goes awry

Victorian doctor Max Winchester and wife Tiffany are also stranded and said their first attempt at a kid-free holiday had gone terribly wrong.

The pair, from Woodend, had been holidaying when the political unrest began and were unable to get seats on the first evacuation flights.

"We're being told we're going to be evacuated by the French and we just don't feel comfortable with that," Dr Winchester said.

"We've seen what a mess this place is and the French haven't been able to manage that, and we just don't feel comfortable with putting our security in the hands of the French at the moment.

"It was my attempt at our first child-free romantic holiday."

Dr Winchester said he and his wife had run out of their medication and were unable to go to the nearest town because of fires, looting and vandalism.

"It's not safe to go into town. Basically we spend every night here with one eye open, hoping we don't get attacked by looters and rioters," Dr Winchester said.

Tuesday's defence force flights departed from new Caledonia's domestic airport, but Australian tourists told the ABC they were unsure if barricades still blocked the road to New Caledonia's international airport further north.

From his hotel window, Mr Carre couldn't see any fires but heard local news of a factory ablaze in Noumea's industrial zone.

"It feels like it has de-escalated, but it's uneasy," he said.

Some shops had stock, but most shelves were still empty.

New Caledonia's business chamber reported 150 companies had been looted and burned.

French president to visit New Caledonia

French President Emmanuel Macron is on his way to New Caledonia in a move which could also complicate further evacuation flights.

Aides to Mr Macron said he would meet with officials and local representatives on Thursday for a day of talks focused on politics and on the reconstruction of the island.

The unrest in New Caledonia, with a population of about 270,000, was sparked by French plans to impose new rules that would give tens of thousands of non-Indigenous residents voting rights .

Pro-independence groups say any such move would dilute the Indigenous Kanak vote.

Ms George said she was worried Mr Macron's visit would further inflame tensions and make it difficult to continue evacuations.

"We don't think a group of tourists from Australia are really high priority at the moment.

"We are concerned if the violence kicks off [again] in the next couple of days."

She said there was a lot of uncertainty among the remaining Australians.

"We are trying to band together, we have a WhatsApp group here, we're trying to support each other."

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