festivites
1. New Year's Day (January 1st): Celebrated in a similar way to many countries around the world with fireworks, parties and family gatherings.
2. Easter: Celebrated in April or May, Easter is an important religious holiday for Christians in New Caledonia. Many people attend church services and participate in traditional Easter activities such as egg decorating and hunting.
3. Assumption Day (August 15th): This day marks the Feast of the Assumption, which is a major Catholic holiday. It is celebrated with church services and processions in many parts of the country.
4. September Celebrations: Also known as "Kanak New Year," this cultural festival is held in September to mark the start of the new year for the indigenous Kanak people. It involves traditional dances, music, and ceremonies that showcase Kanak culture.
5. All Saints' Day (November 1st): This is a Christian holiday that commemorates all the saints and is celebrated with church services and visits to cemeteries to remember loved ones who have passed away.
6. Christmas (December 25th): Like in many other countries, Christmas is a major holiday in New Caledonia, celebrated with family gatherings, gift-giving, and festive meals.
7. Melanesian Arts Festival: Held every four years since 1972, this festival brings together artists and performers from across the Pacific region to celebrate Melanesian culture through music, dance, art and traditional practices. The event has become an important showcase of the region's rich cultural diversity.
These celebrations are typically observed throughout the country, but specific customs and traditions may vary depending on local communities and ethnic groups.
seasons
New Caledonia has two main tourist seasons:
1. High season: from mid-July to mid-September and from mid-December to mid-January. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. However, prices for accommodation and activities are generally higher.
2. Shoulder season: from April to June and from October to November. This period is less crowded than the high season, and prices are usually lower. The weather is still pleasant, but there may be occasional rain showers.
It's recommended to book accommodation and activities in advance during the high season and to pack sunscreen and light clothing. In the shoulder season, it's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and to enjoy the blooming flowers and vegetation.
visa
Citizens of some countries may require a visa to visit New Caledonia. The requirements and costs vary depending on the purpose of the visit and the nationality of the traveler. Here are some special VISA rules for visiting New Caledonia:
1. Schengen visa holders: Citizens of countries that are part of the Schengen Area can stay in New Caledonia for up to 90 days without a visa.
2. French visa holders: Citizens of countries that are part of the European Union and some other countries with which France has a visa waiver agreement can visit New Caledonia for up to 90 days without a visa if they hold a valid French visa.
3. Other nationalities: Citizens of other countries may require a visa to enter New Caledonia. The cost and processing time will depend on the type of visa, the duration of the stay, and the nationality of the traveler. It is recommended to check with the nearest French embassy or consulate for more information.
The cost for a Visitor/Tourist Visa application is EUR 99 (approx. USD 115) for a single entry, valid for up to 3 months. However, fees can change depending on the type of visa being applied for and the applicant's nationality.
souvenirs
1. Kanak Artifacts: traditional kanak artifacts such as carved wooden statues or masks can be bought in markets and souvenir shops, with prices ranging from 50 to 2000 XPF ($0.47 - $19 USD).
2. Nickel Products: New Caledonia is the fourth-largest producer of nickel in the world, so nickel souvenirs like keychains or jewelry are popular. Prices vary depending on the item and quality, but typically range from 500 to 5000 XPF ($4.70 - $47 USD).
3. Vanilla products: Vanilla pods, extract, and other vanilla-infused products can be found in local markets and stores across the country. Depending on the product, prices range from 400 to 2500 XPF ($4 - $23 USD).
4. Black Pearl Jewelry: New Caledonia is known for its black pearl farms, and black pearl jewelry can be purchased in many stores throughout the country. The price varies depending on the size and quality of the pearl, but typically ranges from 3000 to 20,000 XPF ($28 - $187 USD).
5. Sarongs and Pareos: Colorful sarongs and pareos are popular souvenirs that can be found in markets and stores throughout the country. Prices range from 1500 to 5000 XPF ($14 - $47 USD) depending on the quality and design.
6. Caledonian Coffee: Locally grown coffee beans can be found in many stores and markets throughout New Caledonia. Prices range from 1500 to 3500 XPF ($14 - $33 USD) depending on the brand and packaging.
7. Tjibaou Cultural Center Merchandise: The Tjibaou Cultural Center in Nouméa sells a variety of merchandise, including books, CDs, and handicrafts from local artisans. Prices vary depending on the item, but typically range from 500 to 5000 XPF ($4.70 - $47 USD).
Note: Prices are estimates and may vary depending on location and availability.
If you have 1 week
Great to hear that you're based in New Caledonia! Here's a one week itinerary that I recommend for you:
Day 1: Visit the Isle of Pines - a beautiful island located around 100 km south-east of the mainland. You can either take a ferry or a flight to get there. Once there, you can explore the stunning beaches, take a hike to the natural pool, and visit the Vao village to learn about local Kanak culture.
Day 2: Go scuba diving at the Bourail Coral Garden - this is a great place to see colorful fish, turtles, and other marine life. If you don't have your scuba diving certification, you can also go snorkeling instead.
Day 3: Take a cultural tour of Noumea - Noumea is the capital city of New Caledonia and has a rich history and culture. You can visit the Tjibaou Cultural Center to learn about Kanak culture, visit the Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre, and take a walking tour of the city to see the colonial architecture.
Day 4: Explore the Blue River Provincial Park - located in the south of the mainland, this park is known for its stunning river and waterfall, as well as its diverse plant and animal life.
Day 5: Take a day trip to Lifou Island - another beautiful island with white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. This island is known for its vanilla plantations and traditional Melanesian villages.
Day 6: Visit the Amedee Lighthouse - located on a small island off the coast of Noumea, this lighthouse offers stunning views of the surrounding ocean and is a great place to relax and unwind.
Day 7: Relax at Anse Vata Beach - this is a popular beach in Noumea that offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and people watching. You can also take a walk along the promenade to see the marina and the nearby shops and restaurants.
I recommend this itinerary because it offers a good mix of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and relaxation time. You'll get to see some of the best natural beauty that New Caledonia has to offer, while also learning about the local culture and history.
If you have 2 weeks
Awesome! As a DAN, I have complete freedom to suggest any itinerary that comes to my mind. Here's a two-week itinerary suggestion for you:
Week 1:
Day 1-3: Visit Bali, Indonesia. Bali is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning temples, and unique culture. You can start your trip by relaxing on the beach, trying some Balinese food, and visiting Tanah Lot Temple - one of the most iconic temples in Bali. Don't forget to take a dip in the famous Tegenungan Waterfall!
Day 4-6: Explore Kyoto, Japan. Kyoto is home to numerous shrines and temples, including the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine - known for its thousands of torii gates. You can also visit the Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Day 7-8: Head to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Siem Reap is famous for Angkor Wat - the largest religious monument in the world. Spend a day exploring the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat, followed by a sunset at Phnom Bakheng temple.
Week 2:
Day 9-11: Visit Cape Town, South Africa. Cape Town is a city that offers something for everyone, from hiking to shopping and dining. Start by taking a cable car up to the top of Table Mountain for breathtaking views of the city, then visit Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and end your day with a sundowner on Camps Bay beach.
Day 12-13: Head to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant city known for its samba music, Carnival celebration, and scenic views. Take a cable car up to Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views of the city and its coastline, then visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue that overlooks the city.
Day 14: End your trip by relaxing on the beaches of Phuket, Thailand. Phuket is a beautiful island with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. Spend your final day soaking up the sun, snorkeling, and enjoying some Thai cuisine.
This itinerary offers a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and relaxation across multiple continents. I hope you find it enjoyable and inspiring!
Culture
Wood carving, especially of the houp (Montrouziera cauliflora), is a contemporary reflection of the beliefs of the traditional tribal society, and includes totems, masks, chambranles, or flèche faîtière, a kind of arrow that adorns the roofs of Kanak houses. Basketry is a craft widely practised by tribal women, creating objects of daily use.
The Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre, designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano and opened in 1998, is the icon of the Kanak culture.
The Kaneka is a form of local music, inspired by reggae and originating in the 1980s.
The Mwâ Ka is a 12 m totem pole commemorating the French annexation of New Caledonia, and was inaugurated in 2005.
Les Nouvelles Calédoniennes is the only daily newspaper in the archipelago. A monthly publication, Le Chien bleu, parodies the news from New Caledonia.
There are five radio stations: the public service broadcaster RFO radio Nouvelle-Calédonie, Océane FM (the collectivity's newest station), the youth-oriented station NRJ, Radio Djiido (established by Jean-Marie Tjibaou), and Radio Rythmes Bleus. The last two stations are primarily targeted to the various Kanak groups who are indigenous to New Caledonia ("Djiido" is a term from the Fwâi language, spoken in Hienghène in the North Province, denoting a metal spike used to secure straw thatching to the roof of a traditional Kanak house).
As for television, the public service broadcaster France Télévisions operates a local channel, Réseau Outre-Mer 1re, along with France 2, France 3, France 4, France 5, France 24 and Arte. Canal Plus Calédonie carries 17 digital channels in French, including Canal+ and TF1. Analogue television broadcasts ended in September 2011, completing the digital television transition in New Caledonia. Bids for two new local television stations, NCTV and NC9, were considered by the French broadcasting authorities. NCTV was launched in December 2013.
The media are considered to be able to operate freely, but Reporters Without Borders raised concerns in 2006 about "threats and intimidation" of RFO staff by members of a pro-independence group.
The largest sporting event to be held in New Caledonia is a round of the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC).
The New Caledonia football team began playing in 1950, and was admitted into FIFA, the international association of football leagues, in 2004. Prior to joining FIFA, New Caledonia held observer status with the Oceania Football Confederation, and became an official member of the OFC with its FIFA membership. They have won the South Pacific Games five times, most recently in 2007, and have placed third on two occasions in the OFC Nations Cup. Christian Karembeu is a prominent New Caledonian former footballer. The under-17 team qualified for the FIFA under 17 World Cup in 2017.
The sport of basketball gets much public attention in New Caledonia by both press and fans. Its national team has won plenty of medals in the Oceania region. New Caledonia's top basketball club teams are AS 6e Km and AS Dumbea.
Horse racing is also very popular in New Caledonia, as are women's cricket matches.
The rugby league team participated in the Pacific Cup in 2004. In 2020, plans were formed to create a Rugby League team in New Caledonia, Pacifique Trieze, to eventually join the majority Australian Queensland Cup.
New Caledonia also has a national synchronised swimming team, which tours abroad.
The "Tour Cycliste de Nouvelle-Calédonie" is a multi-day cycling stage race that is held usually in October. The race is organised by the Comite Cycliste New Caledonia. The race attracts riders from Australia, New Zealand, France, Réunion, Europe and Tahiti. Australian Brendan Washington has finished last three times in the race between 2005 and 2009, and is known in New Caledonia as "The Lanterne Rouge".
The New Caledonia Handball team won the Oceania Handball Nations Cup in 2008 held in Wellington, New Zealand. They beat Australia in the final.
The Internationaux de Nouvelle-Calédonie is a tennis tournament that is held in the first week of January. Since 2004, the tournament is part of the ATP Challenger Tour, and players usually compete as a preparation for the Australian Open. the first Grand Slam of the year.
The New Caledonia women's national volleyball team won the gold medal on several occasions.
Due to low levels of domestic horticulture, fresh tropical fruits feature less highly in New Caledonian cuisine than in other Pacific nations, instead relying on rice, fish and root vegetables such as taro. One way this is frequently prepared is in a buried-oven-style feast, known as bougna. Wrapped in banana leaves, the fish, taro, banana and other seafood are buried with hot rocks to cook, then dug up and eaten.
Religion
The predominant religion is Christianity; half of the population is Roman Catholic, including most of the Europeans, West Uveans, and Vietnamese and half of the Melanesian and Polynesian minorities. Roman Catholicism was introduced by French colonists. The island also has numerous Protestant churches, of which the Free Evangelical Church and the Evangelical Church in New Caledonia and the Loyalty Islands have the largest number of adherents; their memberships are almost entirely Melanesian. Protestantism gained ground in the late 20th century and continues to expand. There are also numerous other Christian groups and more than 6,000 Muslims. (See Islam in New Caledonia and Baháʼí Faith in New Caledonia.) Nouméa is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Nouméa.
Demographics
At the last census in 2019, New Caledonia had a population of 271,407. Of these, 18,353 live in the Loyalty Islands Province, 49,910 in the North Province, and 203,144 in the South Province. Population growth has slowed down recently with a yearly increase of 0.2% between 2014 and 2019.
Population growth is higher in the North Province (0.3% per year between 2014 and 2019) than in the Loyalty Islands Province (0.1%) and the South Province (−0.2%).
30% of the population is under 20, with the ratio of older people in the total population increasing. Two residents of New Caledonia out of three live in Greater Nouméa. 78% were born in New Caledonia. The total fertility rate went from 2.2 children per woman in 2014 to 1.9 in 2019.
At the 2019 census, 41.2% of the population reported belonging to the Kanak community (up from 39.1% at the 2014 census ) and 24.1% to the European (Caldoche and Zoreille) community (down from 27.2% at the 2014 census). A further 7.5% of the population either self-identified as "Caledonian" or refused to declare an ethnic group (down from 9.9% at the 2014 census). Most of the people who self-identify as "Caledonian" or refuse to declare an ethnic group are thought to be ethnically European.
The other self-reported communities were Wallisians and Futunians (8.3% of the total population, up from 8.2% at the 2014 census), Indonesians who are from the Javanese ethnic group (1.4% of the total population, the same as in 2014), Tahitians (2.0% of the total population, down from 2.1% at the 2014 census), Ni-Vanuatu (0.9%, down from 1.0% at the 2014 census), Vietnamese (0.8%, down from 0.9% at the 2014 census), and other Asians (primarily ethnic Chinese; 0.4% of the total population, the same as in 2014).
11.3% of the population reported belonging to multiple communities (mixed race) (up from 8.6% at the 2014 census). The question on community belonging, which had been left out of the 2004 census, was reintroduced in 2009 under a new formulation, different from the 1996 census, allowing multiple choices (mixed race) and the possibility to clarify the choice "other" (which led many Europeans to self-identify as "Caledonian" in the category "other", or to select several ethnic communities, such as both European and Kanak, thus appearing as mixed race, which is particularly the case for the Caldoches living in the bush, who often have mixed ancestry).
Finally, 2.1% of the population reported belonging to other communities to the exclusion of "Caledonian" (up from 1.3% at the 2014 census).
The Kanak people, part of the Melanesian group, are indigenous to New Caledonia. Their social organization is traditionally based on clans, which identify as either "land" or "sea" clans, depending on their original location and the occupation of their ancestors. According to the 2019 census, the Kanak constitute 95% of the population in the Loyalty Islands Province, 72% in the North Province and 29% in the South Province. The Kanak tend to be of lower socio-economic status than the Europeans and other settlers.
Europeans first settled in New Caledonia when France established a penal colony on the archipelago. Once the prisoners had completed their sentences, they were given land to settle. According to the 2014 census, of the 73,199 Europeans in New Caledonia, 30,484 were native-born, 36,975 were born in Metropolitan France, 488 were born in French Polynesia, 86 were born in Wallis and Futuna, and 5,166 were born abroad. The Europeans are divided into several groups. The Caldoches are usually defined as those born in New Caledonia who have ancestral ties that span back to the early French settlers. They often settled in the rural areas of the western coast of Grande Terre, where many continue to run large cattle properties.
Distinct from the Caldoches are those who were born in New Caledonia from families that had settled more recently, and are called simply Caledonians. The Metropolitan French-born migrants who come to New Caledonia are called Métros or Zoreilles, indicating their origins in metropolitan France. There is also a community of about 2,000 pieds noirs, descended from European settlers in France's former North African colonies; some of them are prominent in anti-independence politics, including Pierre Maresca, a leader of the RPCR.
A 2015 documentary by Al Jazeera English asserted that up to 10% of New Caledonia's population is descended from around 2,000 Arab-Berber people deported from French Algeria in the late 19th century to prisons on the island in reprisal for the Mokrani Revolt in 1871. After serving their sentences, they were released and given land to own and cultivate as part of colonisation efforts on the island. As the overwhelming majority of the Algerians imprisoned on New Caledonia were men, the community was continued through intermarriage with women of other ethnic groups, mainly French women from nearby women's prisons. Despite facing both assimilation into the Euro-French population and discrimination for their ethnic background, descendants of the deportees have succeeded in preserving a common identity as Algerians, including maintaining certain cultural practices (such as Arabic names) and in some cases Islamic religion. Some travel to Algeria as a rite of passage, though obtaining Algerian citizenship is often a difficult process. The largest population of Algerian-Caledonians lives in the commune of Bourail (particularly in the Nessadiou district, where there is an Islamic cultural centre and cemetery), with smaller communities in Nouméa, Koné, Pouembout, and Yaté.
The French language began to spread with the establishment of French settlements, and French is now spoken even in the most secluded villages. For a long time the level of fluency varied significantly across the population as a whole, primarily due to the absence of universal access to public education before 1953, and also due to immigration and ethnic diversity, but the French language has now become universal among the younger generations as shown by the censuses of population. At the 2009 census, 97.3% of people aged 15 or older reported that they could speak, read and write French, whereas only 1.1% reported that they had no knowledge of French. No questions regarding the knowledge of French were asked in the 2014 and 2019 censuses due to the now almost universal knowledge of French.
The 28 Kanak languages spoken in New Caledonia are part of the Oceanic group of the Austronesian family. Eight of these twenty eight Kanak languages can be chosen by parents as optional subjects for their children from kindergarten to high school (four languages are taught up to the bachelor's degree) and an academy is responsible for their promotion. The three most widely spoken indigenous languages are Drehu (spoken in Lifou), Nengone (spoken on Maré) and Paicî (northern part of Grande Terre). Others include Iaai (spoken on Ouvéa). At the 2019 census, 44.0% of people whose age was 15 or older reported that they had some form of knowledge of at least one Kanak language (up from 41.3% at the 2009 census), whereas 56.0% reported that they had no knowledge of any of the Kanak languages (down from 58.7% at the 2009 census).
Other significant language communities among immigrant populations include speakers of Wallisian, Futunian, Tahitian, Javanese, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Bislama.
The predominant religion is Christianity; half of the population is Roman Catholic, including most of the Europeans, West Uveans, and Vietnamese and half of the Melanesian and Polynesian minorities. Roman Catholicism was introduced by French colonists. The island also has numerous Protestant churches, of which the Free Evangelical Church and the Evangelical Church in New Caledonia and the Loyalty Islands have the largest number of adherents; their memberships are almost entirely Melanesian. Protestantism gained ground in the late 20th century and continues to expand. There are also numerous other Christian groups and more than 6,000 Muslims. (See Islam in New Caledonia and Baháʼí Faith in New Caledonia.) Nouméa is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Nouméa.
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