New Caledonia

Quick Facts

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Local name

Nouvelle-Calédonie

Capital

Nouméa

Government

Overseas Territory of France

Nationality

New Caledonian

Population

240,000

Languages

French

Religions

Christianity (Catholic, Protestant)

Currency

CFP Franc (XPF)

Calling Code

+687

Time Zone

UTC+11

Introduction

Church at the top of the Hill in Noumea

© All Rights Reserved naomidavid

New Caledonia is an outstanding destination, due largely to the magnificent barrier reef which surrounds the main island of Grande Terre. It is the second largest in the world and is, unsurprisingly, an underwater maze of natural beauty.

But the islands themselves are more than capable of entertaining the holidayer. Luxurious five star hotels invite the wealthy tourists into their midst, whilst the budget traveller can lodge in the cheaper accomodation. But be they wealthy or on a budget, everyone who comes to New Caledonia is treated to the same cultural vivacity and tropical flavour. Frenchness has made its mark on culture, but the islanders are by no means a collection of French folk donning swimsuits and suntans; their dance and food are unmistakably traditional, though infused with modern influences. Many look forward to the day when they can cut official ties with France and step out into independence.

Provinces

The archipelago is divided into three administrative divisions:

• South Province
• North Province
• Loyalty Islands Province

Cities & Towns

• Nouméa - The capital
• Thio
• Poindimié
• Wé
• Muéo
• Koné
• Canala

Getting There

By Plane

Tontouta International Airport (NOU), some 45 kilometers from the capital Nouméa, is the gateway to the country. The national carrier, Aircalin, mainly serves destinations throughout the Pacific region (among which Fiji and French Polynesia), Japan and from June 2008, South Korea. Aircalin has flights to Australia (Brisbane and Sydney) and New Zealand (Auckland) as well.

Other airlines serving New Caledonia are Air Vanuatu, Qantas and Air New Zealand. All three have connections from several cities in Vanuatu, Australia and New Zealand.

External Links

• Gouvernement de la Nouvelle-Calédonie - Official government website (French)