Stats & Facts
Where
New Caledonia is the third largest island group in the Pacific, after Papua New Guinea and New Zealand.
It is only 1500 kms from the Australian coast and possesses a great biodiversity.Size:
19,000 sq km. New Caledonia is surrounded by the world's largest lagoon and the second largest Barrier Reef.
The main island of New Caledonia is an elongated shape, 400 km by 50 and is called ""La Grande Terre"". To the east are the Loyalty Islands (Mare, Ouvea and Lifou) and Isle of Pines to the south.
Area
1100 km2
Population
Population 250,000
Capital
Noumea
Currency
French Pacific Franc (CFP)
Language
French is the official language although English is spoken particularly by those involved in the tourism industry.
Climate
""Land of Eternal Spring"", New Caledonia is blessed with a pleasant semi-tropical climate all year round.
The warm season (from October to March) averages around 25C, but temperatures rarely get oppressive.
The fresh season (June to September) averages around 20C with rainfall more prevalent from December to March. New Caledonia's climate allows swimming all year around.
Getting There
By air, only a 2 hour direct flight from Brisbane and 2.5 hour direct flight from Sydney.
Aircalin is the National Airline carrier which operates on a daily service from Sydney and 3 flights per week from Brisbane in a code share agreement with Qantas.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Australian passport holders can enter the country without a visa if they stay less than 3 months. A passport with 6 months validity is required.
For longer stay, a visa is necessary and can be obtained through the local French Consulate.
Holidays & Festivals
Public Holidays & Festivals 2009
Jan 01 New Year's Day
Apr 13 Easter Monday
May 01 Labour Day
May 08 Armistice Day 1945
May 01Ascension Day
Jul 14 Bastille Day
Aug 15 Assumption Day
Sep 24 French Treaty Day
Nov 01All Saints' Day
Nov 11 Armistice Day 1918
Dec 25 Christmas Day
Useful Contacts
National Tourist Office
New Caledonia Tourism South
Level 5, Olivetti House
140 William Street
East Sydney
NSW 2011
TOLL FREE 1800 673 745
PHONE: (02) 9360 3933
FAX: (02) 9360 4133
EMAIL This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
For more information on New Caledonia click on Visit New Caledonia