GET CLOSER TO WHAT YOU LOVE
Less than 3 hours flight from Auckland, the natural haven of New Caledonia combines stunning landscapes with a unique Melanesian French cultural mix.
Noumea, the coastal capital city, feels like a bit of the Riviera and is a destination in itself. The main island of Grande Terre stretches 400 kilometres long with a high quality roading network that invites the adventurous on a jaw dropping road trip along contrasting coastlines and lush inland forests. Tropical bliss awaits a short domestic flight away on the dreamy Isle of Pines and Loyalty Islands where turquoise waters glide over sugar fine beaches.
New Caledonia’s more confidential status means no crowds and being a French outpost gives the impression of being on the other side of the world - without the jet lag… This is a South Pacific neighbour with a différence that will steal the heart of beachcombers, explorers and style setters alike.
Get closer to nature
Ideal climate and soil quality are some of the contributing factors to New Caledonia being identified as a biodiversity hotspot with close to 80% endemism.
Large areas of its territory are protected parks as a result. Well marked hiking trails traverse them on land while its lagoon, the largest enclosed one in the world, is included on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
At Blue River Park in the Great South of Grande Terre, the endemic flightless Cagou bird can be observed, easily recognisable by its light grey plumage and high pitched cry.
Lush waterfalls, distinctive cliff formations and hidden caves are some of the landmarks not to be missed.
Out on the water, the xx comes second to only the Great Barrier Reef housing thriving populations of tropical corals and fish as well as turtles and dugongs.
Humpback whales migrate up from the South Pole to give birth between July and September.
Get closer to relaxation
Stylish resorts offering the quintessential French thalassotherapy spa concept and dining experiences that sublimate local ingredients with a modern French take provide the perfect setting for a relaxing break, of the weekend getaway variety or for longer stays with a range of apartment style accommodations on offer.
The independently minded can rent a camper van and stock up on French produce at the supermarket before making their way from beach to beach and river to waterfall on their own time.
The ultimate escape from all stress awaits on one of the outer islands. Ouvea’s 30 kilometre Mouli Beach is a great choice to get away from it all by finding a deserted spot for a lazy afternoon.
Over on Isle of Pines, one can drift off through transparent water on a traditional sailing canoe.
Get closer to adventure
Counting croissants is not necessary when there are so many ways to stay active in New Caledonia. From horse riding to kite surfing, golf to diving or mountain biking to light xx flying, there is a new passion waiting to be discovered for everyone.
The West Coast of Grande Terre is home to large ranches and a local cowboy culture transmitted through the generations. Horse rides on the beach are a magical way to experience this part of the country.
Constant winds around Noumea create the perfect conditions for kite surfing. Lessons are easy to book or some may prefer to get the adrenalin boost vicariously by observing the pros off Anse Vata bay or Ilot Maitre.
Keen golfers will enjoy the four courses located between Noumea and Bourail, this last one designed by Stephen Dye with incredible lagoon views.
As for snorkelling and diving, the toughest challenge is choosing which spots to go to with so many options. Maison du Lagon, an aquatic activities sale centre located at Port Moselle in Noumea, is a great starting point.
Get closer to culture
The unique blend of Melanesian and French cultures is what makes New Caledonia so special.
Gastronomy is part of French culture which is evident in Noumea’s multitude of restaurants and bars as well as creperies and boulangeries.
The old colonial houses still stand in the neighbourhood of Faubourg Blanchot offering a glimpse into the past. New Caledonia was also a penal colony and the prisons built by the convicts themselves are open to the public today.
Kanak tribal culture is more prevalent outside the city and travellers wishing to connect with the land’s first people will stay in charming bed and breakfasts, some with the traditional huts. This is the best way to go beyond the postcard and learn about the area with guides to explain local legends, where to go for wonderful views and to spot the plants and animals that may be hiding in plain sight.
Hearing French and the numerous Kanak dialects spoken throughout the country is a different kind of exotic.