Suggested Length of Stay
Recommended lengths of stay in New Caledonia, stay anywhere from 4-5 days to a few weeks, depending on the level of relaxation you are after.
Modes of transport
Roads
Outside of Noumea, traffic is sparse, and the main roads are generally in good condition, though New Caledonia is very mountainous, so there are lots of very winding roads.
Buses
The main mode of public transport in Noumea is the bus network. It’s made up of the Karuai bus, which has nine routes across the main island including two tourism-dedicated routes that stop at places of interest for visitors (routes 12 and 41) and RAI, the interurban coach service that has more than 25 routes across the main island. Buses stop at ferry ports, from where you can reach the islands.
Taxis
Taxis are confined to Noumea, the larger towns on Grande Terre and a couple of islands.
Car Rentals
Touring New Caledonia by car allows you to explore places off the beaten track that aren’t easy to reach by bus.
A valid licence from your own country will suffice to drive in New Caledonia.
By Sea
Betico fast passenger ferries sail from Noumea to Île des Pins, and to Maré and Lifou in the Loyalty Islands.
By Air
It’s possible to fly to outer islands Ouvéa, Tiga Lifou and Maré on local airline Air Loyauté, with most flights no longer than half an hour.
Health Precautions
Mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue and Zika, are a risk in New Caledonia. Wear mosquito repellent and see your doctor before you go to discuss other preventative measures, especially if you are pregnant or plan to be.
Food and Drink
Eating in New Caledonia is an absolute delight. Outdoor markets burst with colour and life, and there’s always a little surprise to be found, such as plump, just-baked chocolate cake for sale in a remote regional market. In restaurants and even fast-food snack bars, even the simplest-sounding dish will be a taste-sensation.
Money
The currency is the Pacific Franc (CFP), also used in French Polynesia and Wallis & Futuna.
Most banks have ATMs that accept major credit cards. There are ATMs around Noumea and other major towns and villages – though some are only accessible during the bank’s business hours.
Time Zone
Time Zone: UTC+11
Visas
Same rules apply in New Caledonia as they do in France as it is a dependency, Tourist can stay for 3 months without a visa.
Embassy & Consulate contacts for New Caledonia
Australian Consulate General in Noumea
2eme étage, 11 Rue Georges Baudoux, Nouméa 98800, New Caledonia
Phone: +687 27.24.14
New Caledonia Embassy & Consulate contacts in Australia
The Embassy of France in Australia is responsible for New Caledonia affairs in Australia.
All Australian capital cities have a French Consulate who can assist you.
Electricity
In New Caledonia, the power plugs and sockets are of type F. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Getting there (stopovers)
Air Caledonie International and Qantas both have direct flights from East Coast cities in Australia to Noumea.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in New Caledonia. Feel free to round up the bill at a restaurant or in a taxi, although it’s not expected
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