By the newcaledoniatravel.com team · Updated 24 September 2026 · Nouméa
- The currency is the CFP franc (XPF), pegged to the euro: 1,000 XPF is about €8.38.
- French is the official language; English is spoken in tourist businesses but less elsewhere.
- Tipping isn't expected, though rounding up for good service is appreciated.
- Many shops close for lunch and on Sunday afternoons.
- Restaurants serve dinner from around 19:00 and kitchens close early.
- Plugs are the European two-pin type (E/F), 220 V.
- New Caledonia is on UTC+11 all year, with no daylight saving.
- Anse Vata and Baie des Citrons are the best areas to stay.
- Water taxis to the islets leave from Anse Vata beach.
- The Tanéo bus network links the bays with the centre.
- Drive on the right.
- Tap water in Nouméa is generally drinkable.
- The sun is fierce: use high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen.
- Emergency numbers: 15 (medical), 17 (police), 18 (fire), 112 from mobiles.
- Supermarket alcohol sales can be restricted at certain times and days.
- Get a local eSIM for data; roaming is expensive.
- Book restaurants at weekends.
- Domestic flights now leave from La Tontouta, not Magenta.
- Carry cash for markets, water taxis and the islands.
- Check current travel advice before you go.
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Header photo: Photo: Loïc du Rostu, FAL
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