New Caledonia is one of the closest pacific neighbours to Australia and New Zealand and yet many of us still don’t know much about this beautiful island destination.
That’s why we’ve put together this handy little guide to help with the introduction!
New Caledonia is one of Australia & New Zealand’s closest Pacific neighbour, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking for a holiday with a difference, without the distance.
When you arrive in New Caledonia, you will find yourself amongst stunning natural wonders, all waiting to be explored and appreciated by visitors. Flying direct with Aircalin you can be in Noumea, in under three hours from Australia & New Zealand; the short flying times make this Pacific island the perfect long weekend getaway.
Whether you are exploring the Southern Province including; Noumea, Isle of Pines and Bourail or heading up towards the Northern Province or out to the Loyalty Islands, this magnificent part of the world really has it all.
Noumea
A little piece of France in the Pacific! With its French Riviera atmosphere and its luxury boutiques, Noumea deserves this title without a doubt. However, this sprawling city has a thousand other facets that make it the capital of the Pacific, with mixed cultural influences. Founded in 1860, Noumea blends together heritage, entertainment and leisure activities.
With its distinct French influence, the exceptional dining experience in Noumea has earned it the title of haute-cuisine hub of the Pacific.
You’ll find traditional bistrots next to beachside restaurants, serving everything from Coq au Vin to freshly caught seafood featuring in French favourites such as Lobster Thermidor and Moules Marinières.
Isle of Pines
At twenty-minute flight south of Noumea, this island concentrates all the beauties of the Pacific. Untouched and breathtaking nature exposes deserted beaches and beautiful natural pools, lined with small trails shaded by banyan trees and columnar pines.
Immersed in a lagoon listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, Kunié, in Kanak language appears as a gem deposited on a turquoise immensity of which emerge the columnar pines, this endemic species of “pinus” which earned the island its name.
Bourail
A short two-hour drive north of Noumea will take you to Bourail, where you will find New Caledonia’s unique ‘cowboy’ country. The large farms and estates in the area are managed by the ‘Broussards’, also known as bush locals. With their typical cowboy attire, the Broussards wouldn’t look out of place on a Texan Ranch!
Northern Province
The North is a land of natural wonders, from the remarkable Chicken Rock in the sea at Hienghene to the uncanny shape of the Heart of Voh, a natural expanse of mangroves in a giant symbol of love.
Fishing, diving and adventure tourism are the main attractions in the far North – and it’s also rugged cattle country where the beef produced is of the finest quality.
Loyalty Islands
For a real adventure, head to the sparsely populated Loyalty Islands. Encounter secluded beaches, hidden caves, amazing views, abundant bushland and local Kanak inhabitants that will make you feel welcome the second you arrive.
The most authentic province, where the population is almost entirely Kanak, Iles Loyauté (the Loyalty Islands) live in the rhythm of Melanesian customs. The authority of chiefdoms is still highly respected, the rituals observed and traditions conserved. To the observer, these islands are the perfect place to discover the reality of Kanak people’s social organization, still very much alive. The legendary hospitality of Loyaltiens facilitates trade. Feel free to be curious, while being respectful!