Featured Destination:NEW CALEDONIA
 Capital : Nouméa Population: 207,858 (July 2002 est.) Time: GMT+11
Official Languages:
French is the national language of New Caledonia, although there are approximately thirty different Melanesian languages, including the following dialects: Drubea, Nengone, Drehu, Orowe, Neku, Faga Uvea. Most people involved in the tourist industry, as well as many locals, speak English (and also Japanese) and a majority of tourist brochures are written in English. Of course, a few phrases in French are always welcomed by the locals. We suggest you approach people with a friendly 'bonjour' (good day) or 'parlez-vous Anglais?' (Do you speak English?). You'll find New Caledonians are very friendly.
Climate: The warm season is from September to March with temperatures averaging between 25-27 degrees Celsius. The cooler season is from April to August with temperatures averaging 20-23 degrees Celsius, however water temperatures remaining warm throughout the year. The wetter months, as in tropical regions, are from January to March.
Currency: Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique franc Electricity: The current in New Caledonia is 220 volts AC 50 cycles, which is suitable for New Zealand 240 volt appliances. However the electricity sockets are the European type, which is different to the New Zealand three-prong type. Some hotels offer both European and New Zealand sockets, but it is advisable to take an adaptor, which is readily available at New Zealand international airports. Health: Always take sunscreen and insect repellant. Country Dialing Code: +687 Transport: Tontouta International Airport is located approximately 50 km from the city of Nouméa and is connected by a modern road, now including multi-lane freeway sections. At Tontouta Airport, shuttle buses or mini-buses (indicate price: approx xpf 2,800 p.p (NZ$38) and taxis offer regular transfer services to Nouméa in 50 minutes. Car rental is also available. It is recommended to organise bus transfers or hire a car prior to arrival in New Caledonia. If you decide to hire a rental car and drive yourself, there is a road toll 150 XPF on the way to the city so you should make sure you change some money at the airport to cover this. Airlines: Air Calin, Air France, Air New Zaland , Air Vanuatu, Qantas
Tipping: Tipping is not expected.
 Please click the link below to learn more about Diving in New Caledonia
Please click the following link to visit the Tourism New Caledonia website
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