New Caledonia is indeed a true melting pot of cultures and diverse experiences. It was first settled by Kanak people around 3000-years ago. The stunning island was annexed by France around 1853. French culture is a clear influence on the island, but there’s a strong Melanesian presence. Different cultures also have moved towards New Caledonia, including groups from Asia (Indonesia, Japan, and Vietnam) as well as other islands (Tahiti, Wallis, and Futuna as well as Reunion Island). All of the communities have left their mark on the New Caledonian society and brought with them food and cultural pleasures of their home countries. The beautiful landscape or the perpetual springtime, whether something is appealing to people from all walks of life within New Caledonia. It truly is an island that needs to be explored by all!
Climate
A subtropical climate with the possibility of rain throughout the year. Rainstorms are commonplace on the east coast in higher elevations; greater than 120 in (3,000 millimeters) rain could occur annually. The west coast is where rainfall is typically lower than 40 inches (1,000 millimeters). The time from December through March is especially rainy due to the presence of equatorial depressions that can cause frequent tropical Cyclones (typhoons). Another heavy rain season is observed in August and July, and the driest months fall from September to November.
The winds that run from northeast to southeast, and even trade winds, dominate throughout the year and help reduce temperatures during the summer that begins in November. Cyclonic winds are often seen at the end of the hot season. The annual mean temperature at sea level is 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit (22-24 degrees Celsius). In the southern portion of the island, there are days where temperatures rise over 86 degF (30 degrees Celsius). The lowest temperature reached in Noumea is around 55 degF (13 degC); however, further to the north along the west coast, temperatures as low as 41 degrees (5 degC) are common.
Geography And Location
New Caledonia lies in the subregion of Melanesia, situated only 2 hours to the east of Brisbane, located to the south of Equator and the west from Fiji, as well as Vanuatu. It’s about one-fifth the area of Taiwan and covers an area of 18,575.5kms and comprises three major sections: the mainland; the Grand Terre; the limestone and coral Loyalty Islands; and several smaller islands scattered across the Coral Sea, including the Isle of Pines.
The geography of New Caledonia is one of the main reasons people visit it. It was named after Captain Cook because of its apparent resemblance to Scotland. The French South Pacific area offers everything. A breathtaking blue-green lagoon encircles the entire island and houses one of the most beautiful natural aquariums. More than 60 percent of the lagoon in New Caledonia is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The country has a territorial sea area of 22km offshore and an exclusive fishing zone that extends for 370km.
An incredible mountain range dominates Grand Terre. A lush grassland and forest dotted with paperbark trees is part of the range, which serves as the refuge for a unique ecosystem. The animal and plant life found in New Caledonia is rarely seen elsewhere. This island group has been one of the only stable ones in the volcano-prone Melanesian region. Nature reserves and hiking trails show off and preserve the unique geography of New Caledonia. The mountain ridges extend out to wild coastlines, so no matter where you travel, you’ll look around and enjoy the very best from both!