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New Caledonia

Where Mediterranean vibes mingle with Melanesian warmth

Where French flair meets Pacific paradise

Only a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Auckland, New Caledonia effortlessly blends chic French sophistication with mellow South Pacific charm. Step off the plane and you'll instantly feel the allure.

Noumea, the stylish capital at the southern tip of Grande Terre, feels remarkably like the French Riviera. Wander charming streets lined with boutiques, pâtisseries, cheese shops, and bustling cafés, visit the Latin Quarter or explore historic districts like Vallée du Tir, and you'll swear you've landed in France.

Just minutes away are the luxurious beachside resorts of Anse Vata, overlooking the world’s largest lagoon, teeming with colourful tropical fish, rare turtles, and even the gentle dugong. Beyond Noumea, Grande Terre unfolds into forests, mountains, and grassy plains just waiting to be explored.

But don't stop there. Relax on the idyllic Isle of Pines, known as the "jewel of the Pacific," or escape to the tranquil Loyalty Islands of Lifou, Maré, and Ouvéa, where white sands, turquoise waters, and serene beauty redefine relaxation.

For your perfect New Caledonian adventure: embrace Noumea’s chic city charm, unwind in Anse Vata’s resorts, then let it all go on a dreamy outer island. Bliss!

Chat to one of our travel specialists today!

Flight time

2.5 hours from Auckland to Noumea, 3 hours and 26 minutes from Wellington to Noumea and 3 hours and 41 minutes from Christchurch to Noumea.

Best time to go

The best time to visit New Caledonia is from May to October, when the weather is pleasantly cool and dry, perfect for outdoor activities. This period also aligns with the whale-watching season from July to September. The wet season from November to April brings higher humidity and occasional storms.

Time difference

New Zealand is 1 hour ahead of New Caledonia.

Our New Caledonia travel blogs

Top snorkelling spots in the Pacific Islands

Beneath the clear aqua seas lies a snorkeller’s paradise of unbelievable underwater visibility, a stunning array of marine life, bright coral and dramatic caverns.

Which Pacific Island is right for you?

So many islands, so little time! With turquoise lagoons, sun-drenched beaches and resorts built for bliss, every island on our doorstep offers its own slice of paradise.

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Meet our New Caledonia specialists

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Laura Simpson

House of Travel Taupo

When I first started in the travel industry, I didn’t even have a passport! Fast forward a few months, and that had all changed – I hit the ground running on my first overseas adventure, and I haven’t stopped since. Whether it’s getting immersed in the local culture, or ticking off bucket list moments, travel has a unique magic that stays with you forever.

I love using my own travel experience to bring that personal, unique touch to your dream holiday, making a seamless experience from the planning stages right through to your return home. From navigating the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong to exploring the USA on a road trip, there’s a world out there just waiting to be discovered.

Let’s have a chat, and make your travel dreams a reality!

Laura

Caprice Whiteman

House of Travel Whanganui

With a couple of years of experience in the travel industry, I am passionate about all things travel — culture, adventure, food and leisure. Most importantly, I love turning your travel dreams into reality.

Travel has been a part of my life since I was three years old, those early experiences sparked a love for travel that has only grown over time. In 2021, I achieved a Level 4 Certificate in Tourism, Airline and Flight Attending which opened the door that brought me into the world of travel.

I’m excited to discover new destinations and help others do the same

David Williams

House of Travel Christchurch City

In the 28 years of owning House of Travel Christchurch City, I have successfully developed a passionate and award-winning team of travel specialists. Our holiday specialists can take you to the destinations that you have dreamed of and let you know inside information that will enrich your travel experience. The highly experienced business travel division will exceed your expectations leaving no stone unturned to ensure a seamless travel experience every time. We also have a fantastic HOT Events team that can take care of your conference, team building or any event requirement you might have from a planned dinner event to incentive or recognition programme.

From my beginnings in customer sales and service, travelling to over 60 countries, my primary focus is overseeing all divisions, and growing our every popular Sporting Events Programmes. A highlight is delivering a highly successful games campaigns with our New Zealand Olympic Travel team. This includes all New Zealand Team Athlete Travel to providing a family and friends programme as well as a world class corporate offering for sponsors.

I am however most proud of the team for us being awarded three top awards at the National Travel Industry Awards - Best Retail Travel Agency in New Zealand, Best Travel Consultant in New Zealand, Best Groups Team in New Zealand.