New Caledonia

Travel tips for New Caledonia: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. Cards work well in Nouméa and at major hotels, but you will need XPF cash for markets, buses, small vendors, and traveling to rural areas or the Loyalty Islands.

Try the food

  • Bougna: A traditional Kanak feast of chicken, lobster, or fish mixed with yams, taro, and coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked in an earth oven.
  • Civet de roussette: A rich, dark stew made from local fruit bat marinated and simmered in red wine with herbs and vegetables.
  • Salade de cerf: A refreshing local salad featuring thinly sliced, lime-marinated wild venison mixed with onions, carrots, and sometimes coconut milk.

Say it in French

  • Hello: Bonjour
  • Thank you: Merci
  • Please: S'il vous plaît
  • Excuse me: Excusez-moi
  • How much is this?: C'est combien ?
  • The bill please: L'addition, s'il vous plaît
  • Yes / No: Oui / Non
  • Goodbye: Au revoir

Essentials

Plugs
Type C / Type F
Voltage
220V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Tap water
Usually safe
Emergency
112 (general), 17 (police), 15 (ambulance), 18 (fire)
SIM tip
Pick up a prepaid OPT Tourism Card SIM at La Tontouta International Airport or any local post office for the most reliable island-wide coverage.

Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in New Caledonia and can sometimes be considered inappropriate; excellent service is best rewarded with a sincere thank you.

Airports in New Caledonia