New Caledonia

Melanesia · territory

New Caledonia is a territory in Melanesia, home to 270,000 people, with an area of 18,575 km². Its capital is Nouméa.

Population: UN World Population Prospects, 2024 revision. Area: CIA World Factbook.

New Caledonia at a glance

Language

French and several indigenous languages are spoken, including Nengone, Paicî, and Drehu

Currency

CFP franc (XPF)

Religion

Christianity is the predominant religion, with about two-thirds of the population adhering to Catholicism

National dish

Bougna, a traditional Kanak dish made with meat or fish, yams, taro, banana, and coconut milk, cooked in an earth oven

Climate

New Caledonia has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a hot and rainy season from November to April, and a cooler, drier season from May to October

Main industries

Mining, including nickel and cobalt extraction; agriculture, including livestock and crop farming; and tourism, with a focus on ecotourism and outdoor activities such as diving, hiking, and fishing

GDP

$10.15 billion USD (2019 estimate)

Development

New Caledonia is considered a developed country with a high human development index (HDI) ranking of 68 out of 189 countries (2020)

Things to do in New Caledonia

Some of the main tourist attractions in New Caledonia include:

• The Barrier Reef one of the largest coral reefs in the world, with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
• The Heart of Voh a natural formation in the northern province of the island that resembles a heart shape when viewed from above.
• Amedee Island a small island near Nouméa known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, as well as a lighthouse and a marine reserve.
• The Blue River Provincial Park a nature reserve in the southern province that features hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural hot springs.
• The Tjibaou Cultural Center a museum and cultural center in Nouméa that showcases the traditional arts and culture of the Kanak people, as well as contemporary art from around the world.
• The Isle of Pines a small island in the southern province that is known for its stunning beaches, including the iconic Kuto Bay.
• The Nouméa Market a bustling market in the capital that sells local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
• The Grande Terre the largest island in the archipelago, which offers diverse landscapes including mountains, rainforests, and savannahs.
• The Deva Domain a nature reserve and resort in the west of the main island that offers outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking.
• The Parc des Grandes Fougères a nature reserve in the central province that is home to some of the largest ferns in the world.

These are just a few examples of the many attractions that New Caledonia has to offer. The country is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with a mix of French, Kanak, and other Pacific Islander influences.

New Caledonia in pictures

New Caledonia on video

Watch New Caledonia

The player loads when you press play — nothing is requested from the video host before that.

New Caledonia compared with its neighbours

How it sits against the other countries of Melanesia.

Country	Population	Area	Capital
Fiji	930,000	18,274 km²	Suva
Solomon Islands	820,000	28,896 km²	Honiara
Vanuatu	335,000	12,189 km²	Port Vila
New Caledonia	270,000	18,575 km²	Nouméa

Questions about New Caledonia

Keep going