New Caledonia

Bienvenue! New Caledonia is a French holiday playground - a South Pacific holiday of sun, sea, sand and sumptuous cuisine. Its outdoor lifestyle, cafes, bars and restaurants, and fun-filled atmosphere make the major centre of Nouméa, just over two hours from Sydney and Brisbane, the first choice for a short break.

French pâtisserie and light-as-air croissants, Beaujolais and baguettes, the aromas of wonderful New Caledonian coffee, and the laughter of the Melanesian girls as they play “le cricket” are among the things that make Australia’s nearest neighbour unique.

Noumea is linked to some of history’s greatest adventurers. Captain Cook discovered Nouméa in 1774. Clearly captivated by its exotic allure, Napoleon III declared Nouméa a part of France in 1853. The main centre of Nouméa reflects its French influences and is like the French Riviera transplanted to the Pacific.

Nouméa offers a delightful selection of hotels ranging from self-catering to charming boutiques and fashionable resorts.

Unlike the lazy tropical holidays of other South Pacific destinations, there is almost too much to do here. Options range from resort stays to island escapes. Highlights include the superb Tjibaou Cultural Centre and fly-drive holidays for those who want to escape the city to “le bush”.

This busy town’s charming Pacific fragrance is a pot-pourri of classic colonial architecture, chic fashionable boutiques, alfresco cafes and bars and many small, high quality restaurants.

The Pacific has been our home for more than 25 years. We love showing you the best and latest in our South Pacific neighbourhood every time you book with us.

Our enthusiastic team is committed to the highest levels of customer service and you’ll find us uncompromising in our quest to ensure you enjoy the best possible New Caledonia holiday experience.

Climate: The "land of eternal spring", New Caledonia is blessed with a pleasant semi-tropical climate all year round. Cooled by the gentle breezes of the South Pacific, daytime temperatures around 27°C in the warm season from September to March with the cool dry season from April to August averaging 23°C.

Time Zone: New Caledonia is 1 hour ahead of Australian EST in Summer and 2 hours in Winter

Currency: Local currency is the French Pacific Franc 1AUD = 75XPF

Banks: You will find ATMs & major banks in Nouméa and larger towns. Major credit cards are widely accepted, but there are no EFTPOS facilities. Travellers cheques are accepted by larger stores and hotels.

Shopping: Shops are open from 7.30am to 11.30am & 1.30pm to 6.00pm Monday to Friday and to 11.00am Saturday. Duty Free shopping is restricted to Nouméa. You will find a wide range of designer labels in Nouméa's elegant shops, the most comprehensive range of French perfumes and cosmetics outside Paris, and the latest in European shoes. There are colourful markets where you can buy pareos and other souvenirs.

Transport: Nouméa has an extensive public transport system which is inexpensive and easy to use, taxis are plentiful, and bicycle hire is available. For travel beyond the city, remember traffic travels on the right hand side (as in Europe) and the roads are in mostly good condition.

Languages: French is the official language with English widely spoken.

Vaccinations: No vaccinations are mandatory however consult your doctor before travelling.

Tipping: Tipping is not expected or encouraged.

Electricity: 220 volts - suitable for most Australian appliances, with European style plugs.

Visa: Australian passport holders do not require a visa. Proof of onward travel is required.

The New Caledonia Experience

• Visit Isle of Pines - a spectacular island with stunning emerald lagoons and white sandy beaches.
• Experience the gourmet delights of French food in Nouméa.
• Snorkel and experience the marine life around one of the world's largest lagoons.
• Watersport enthusiasts can try kite or wind surfing or any number of water sports at Nouméa's most popular beach, Anse Vata.
• Visit Amedee Island with its grand lighthouse.
• Visit the Loyalty Islands - white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and gentle people.
• Ride the Petit train, a trolley that travels city and surrounds including the Aquarium and Botanical Gardens.
• Explore the Tjibaou Cultural Centre - open Tuesday to Sunday 9am - 5pm and Thursday until 8pm.
• Walk around St Marie Bay on the Pierre Vernier walk.
• Have a cocktail at one of the bars around the Baie des Citrons.