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New Caledonia

Noumea’s main terminal is a short walk from downtown.

Port guide: Noumea, New Caledonia

A little bit of France floating not far from Australia, combined with indigenous culture and lovely scenery: what’s not to like about this South Pacific port?

  • Brian Johnston
The real deal: Lifou, New Caledonia.

The highlights of cruising the South Pacific aren’t always the islands

A cruise to the islands of this region fulfils every fantasy of tropical paradise. But not all ports are equal, so choose your excursions wisely.

  • Julie Miller
Trav-SpotlightNewCaledonia-300125

This Pacific paradise is ready to welcome Australian travellers back

Australians were the second-biggest market for this idyllic island nation. But after unrest in May last year, all tourism ground to a halt.

  • Julietta Jameson
Aerial view of Le Meridien Resort & Spa in Noumea.

Best short-haul holiday destinations: Noumea, New Caledonia

Noumea offers a genuine taste of France incredibly close to Australia – closer than Cairns is from Sydney, in fact.

  • Anthony Dennis
Looking back over Noumea and Moselle Bay.

Nine must-do highlights of Noumea, New Caledonia

A fine reason for visiting Noumea, the capital of French territory New Caledonia, is its variety of Gallic culinary delights.

  • Anthony Dennis
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There are no celebrations to mark the 25th anniversary of the building.

It’s one of the world’s boldest buildings, but few know it exists

The Pacific’s version of the Sydney Opera House, this remarkable building is on our doorstep but remains relatively unknown.

  • Anthony Dennis
Blue River Park.

It’s possible to fly just three hours and feel like you’re in France

Going beyond the croissant, a trip to New Caledonia proves a chance to find a drowned forest and the endangered kagu, the island’s flightless bird.

  • Keith Austin
Hibiscus class aboard Aircalin.

Airline review: This small, classy carrier deserves a higher profile

New Caledonia is so close to Australia it should be a more popular destination, especially considering the way its airline impresses.

  • Anthony Dennis
To Sua Ocean Trench, Samoa’s iconic swimming hole on Upolu island.

25 incredible South Pacific experiences you won’t find anywhere else

We don’t have to go far to escape to destinations completely unlike our own, that offer unique experiences we can’t get on the other side of the equator.

  • Craig Tansley
Sunset on the hills around Noumea, New Caledonia.

Things to see, do and eat in Noumea, New Caledonia: Expert expat travel tips

One year in Noumea has turned into 25 for this expat.

  • Belinda Jackson