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New Caledonia

Mediterranean meets mellow Melanesia

NEW CALEDONIA

An intoxicating blend of South Pacific idyll and French sophistication is waiting just a two-and-a-half hour flight from Auckland. New Caledonia is like nowhere else in the Pacific – and as soon as you set foot there, you’ll appreciate the source of its very special charm: Mediterranean meets mellow Melanesia. The capital, Noumea, occupies the southern tip of the main island, Grande Terre, with beautiful bays on both sides. It’s sophisticated yet casual and you won’t find anywhere else on earth quite so similar to the French Riviera. The atmosphere in this little city is pure Gallic, with boutiques, patisseries, cheese shops and restaurants lining quaint streets and squares. Explore the Latin Quarter and the old districts of the Vallee du Tir and Vallee des Colons – and you could be in France.

Just outside the town, on the shores of the world’s largest lagoon, are the stylish resorts of Anse Vata. The lagoon itself is home to a myriad of tropical fish as well as the endangered dugong and rare turtles – a visit to the National Aquarium will give you an insight into this remarkable underwater world. Venture further afield and you’ll find a surprising variety of landscapes on Grande Terre: forests, mountains and wide, grassy plains. And, of course, there’s more to New Caledonia than just one island. The Ile des Pins (Isle of Pines) is a dreamlike paradise on the Tropic of Capricorn and the tranquil, unspoilt Loyalty Islands – Lifou, Maré and Ouvéa – are simply exquisite. If you want to lose yourself in relaxation, these are the places to go.

So, for the ideal New Caledonian experience… give yourself time to explore the chic town of Noumea, time to enjoy the resort life of Anse Vata and round it off with time all to yourself on a magical outer island. Perfection!

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

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Jay Irvine

House of Travel Barrington

With my own experience in travel, along with my corporate background as well.

I have been able to book a wide variety of trips ranging from flop and drop holidays through to sport events and everything in between.

Jay

Kelly-Ann Patterson

House of Travel Lower Hutt

I'm seen as a great relationship builder who is passionate about people and their travel adventures. I've travelled extensively both on my own and with my two teenage boys. Rarely go to any place twice as there's too much of the world to see.

I don't have a specific favourite destination as it's all about new frontiers for me and stepping outside of my comfort zone.

I've been in the industry for 20+ years including 5 years working for Air New Zealand where I gained a wealth of knowledge which I'm finding invaluable in the complex world of airfares post COVID.

Contact me - always up for a chat!

Kelly-Ann

Alisha Lockie

House of Travel Ferrymead

I have travelled to over 40 countries and I am always plotting what's next - however, the more places I experience, the longer the longer the list gets! I love the anticipation of a new adventure and learning as much as I can from every new journey. I am a self-described travel enthusiast, so being able to talk travel every day and share my passion for travel is a dream come true. I love helping people realize their travel dreams and being able to live vicariously through experiences.

Getting to know my clients and learning what's important to them is something I really enjoy, and helps when creating an itinerary that's is as unique and as special as the traveler.

There is nothing more satisfying to me than a client popping in after their journey with tales to tell of the adventures they've had. I love hearing peoples stories and experiences as every experience is so different - there is no universal truth or one size fits all option when it comes to travel!

For me travel is inspiring and transformative - it allows you to learn more about the world around you, and in the process, more about yourself.

Alisha

Danny Hooper

House of Travel Johnsonville

I have been in the travel Industry for 20 years and am convinced that it is the most exciting industry to be a part of.

I still get excited about all things travel and love exploring new and exciting destinations or passing on the knowledge and ideas to customers to ensure they have the most amazing experience on holiday.

Danny