New Caledonia's capital, Noumea, is like a mini Paris located in the middle of the South Pacific with quality French restaurants and classy boutiques. In contrast the east coast of new Caledonia is inhabited by the native Kanaks who have survived hundreds of years of oppression.
Climate
Situated farther south than most South Pacific islands, New Caledonia has a sunny moderate climate. It can get cool during the winter months however the ocean remains warm year round. December to march is the hotter, rainy season and is also the cyclone season, which can cause heavy rain and flooding.
Temperatures range from an average low of 20 degrees in winter to around 26 degrees in summer.
Health
The health service is run by the army and the doctors are army based from France. Tourists usually have to see local doctors. The tap water in the main towns is reportedly safe to drink and there is no malaria in New Caledonia.
There are a number of pharmacies situated throughout Noumea. Noumeas main hospital is called Hospital Gaston Bourret and accepts emergency cases only.
Epidemics of mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever, zika virus, and chikungunya occur in New Caledonia, particularly during the warmer wet months of February to May. Small outbreaks of leptospirosis are common with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time, particularly during March to May.
Facts
Population: approx. 249,000;
Currency: CFP franc (XPF);
Time: UTC +11;
Official Language: French;
Capital: Noumea
For more information on healthy travel with your family check our
healthy travel guide.
image © New Caledonia Tourism
