About
The French claimed New Caledonia in 1853 and their influence has led to the country’s unique identity today. Often described as a slice of Paris in the South Pacific, travelers to New Caledonia find themselves in a climate and location that is definitely tropical, yet the main language is French and the shopping, restaurants and nightlife feel distinctly European. New Caledonia is made up of the main island, Le Grand Terre, and several offshore islands, including the Loyalty Islands to the north-east, and the Isle of Pines to the south. New Caledonia’s cosmopolitan capital Noumea, is located on the south-east of Le Grand Terre, and is famous for its French ambience.
Population
250,000
Capital City
Noumea
Climate
Dry Season: April to November. Cooler and drier, the average
temperature drops to 20°C in July and August.
Wet Season: December to March. Warm and humid with an average temperature of 25.5°C.
Time Zone
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) + 11 hours. One hour ahead of
Australian Eastern Standard Time
Currency
Pacific Franc (CFP) Click here to view latest exchange rates
Are Visa’s Required?
Australian citizens/passport holders do not require a visa for a short stay in New Caledonia. Make sure your passport has at least six months validity, and carry a copy of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
Paying Locally – ATM’s/Credit Card Facilities
Major bank branches can be found on Av de la Victoire. American Express is on the ground floor of Center Voyages, on Av du Marechal Foch, changes travellers cheques and cash. ATM access is available in La Foa on the drive north from the airport, please ask the driver to take you to an ATM, as cash is required. Ouano has CC facilities, Nekweta is cash only currently. Isle of Pines has 1 cash ATM only (Cirrus Maestro cards only) with hotel Kou Bugny accepting major credit cards.
Fish Handling Policy
Due to the remoteness of this location, logistics involved and release policy for sustainable fishing, it is not possible to take fish out of New Caledonia. Keeping select fish for eating throughout the trip is at your skipper’s discretion. The seafood you catch makes up a large component of your meals on the island.
Alcohol – Duty Free & Taking Drinks On Board
Duty free limits for taking alcohol into New Caledonia are; 2L of wine plus 1L of spirits and liquors not exceeding 22% alcohol content, or 2L of spirits and liquors with 22% alcohol content or less. Bar facilities are available at Ouano and Nekwata lodges, both operate a bar tab system which is to be paid in Pacific Francs. Alcohol for live on board charters can be pre-ordered in advance, and paid directly to your skipper. Please liaise with Ocean Blue to place order.
Tipping/Gratuities
Tipping is not mandatory in New Caledonia, but tends to be a common practice on conclusion of a charter; if you wish to pass the hat around between the group, AUD $50 per days fishing (per boat) is a rough guide. Lures, sunglasses and cool t-shirts are also a hit with crews. Please note, all tipping to skippers, deck hands, crew or other service providers is entirely up to the individuals’ discretion.
Electricity/Adaptors
Electricity/power outlets throughout New Caledonia are the same as in France. Plugs have two round pins, 220-240V. Adaptors are required.
Getting There
Tontouta International airport is located 50 minutes north of Noumea, flights from Australian major cities, New Zealand, Asia etc is serviced by Aircalin and other carriers. West Coast angler lodges, Ouano and Nekweta are located an easy drive north from the airport, whilst ex Noumea live on boards require a transfer south to Noumea. Isle of Pines adventures require a domestic flight, 2-3 flights per day (40 min) or ferry trip (2.5 hours).
Rod Tubes/Local Luggage Limitations
Telescopic rod tubes are advised, maximum length approx 200cm. Live On Board clients please be aware that there is limited storage for luggage onboard, soft bags are advised where possible.
Unforeseen Expenses
Any additional or unforeseen expenses; i.e. lost or damaged tackle, lure purchases, etc) to be paid directly to your skipper.
