£1 CFPF 138
Today
2:55 pm
+11h from you
Weather in New Caledonia
New Caledonia
30°
Thunderstorm
Wed
28
30
Thu
28
29
Fri
28
30
Sat
29
30
Sun
29
32
SPF level in New Caledonia
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around New Caledonia
Tipping in New Caledonia
Tipping is not a widespread practice in New Caledonia, and service charges are often included in bills at restaurants and hotels. While not obligatory, tipping for exceptional service is appreciated.
Restaurant
5-10% for exceptional service, if a service charge is not already included.
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill is appreciated for good service.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Hotel Porter
100-200 XPF per bag is appreciated.
Hotel Housekeeper
100-200 XPF per day of stay is appreciated for good service.
Tour Guide
500-1000 XPF per day for a good tour.
Safety in New Caledonia
Driving in New Caledonia
A UK driving license is valid for driving in New Caledonia for up to 3 months. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.05%
Remember: New Caledonia drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
17
Ambulance
15
Fire
18
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in New Caledonia
Voltage
220V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type F
UK adapter needed?
Yes
New Caledonia uses Type F plugs. The standard voltage is 220V and the frequency is 50Hz. British travelers will need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit card acceptance is moderate in Nouméa and other tourist areas, but less common in rural areas. Always check if cards are accepted before making a purchase.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in New Caledonia
ATMs are primarily found in Nouméa and larger towns. Availability is limited in more remote areas.
Local name
DAB (Distributeur Automatique de Billets)
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
Using ATMs is a convenient way to access cash, but ensure your card is chip and PIN enabled. Check for fees charged by your bank and the local ATM.
Mobile & roaming
As the UK is no longer part of the EU, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in New Caledonia, which can be very high. Consider purchasing a local SIM card to avoid significant costs.
Local SIM data package
5 GB for 2500 XPF (~£18)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, GSM
Local carriers
OPT (Office des Postes et Télécommunications)
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, cafes, and restaurants in Nouméa and other tourist areas. Coverage can be limited in more remote locations.
Average speed
15 Mbps
While WiFi is accessible, speeds can vary. For reliable internet access, consider using a local SIM card with a data plan. Free WiFi hotspots may also be available in public areas.
Health & vaccinations in New Caledonia
As a British tourist, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, as GHIC/EHIC is not applicable in New Caledonia, which is not part of the EU.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Dengue fever
Consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and precautions for travel to New Caledonia. Mosquito-borne diseases are present, so take preventative measures such as using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and trousers. Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations.
Calling New Caledonia
Country code
+687
To call New Caledonia from the UK, dial 00 + 687 + the local number.
To call a number in Nouméa, you would dial 00 687 XX XX XX.
To call New Caledonia, you'll need the country code 687. When calling from the UK, first dial the exit code 00.
UK Embassy in New Caledonia
British High Commission Suva (Fiji, also responsible for New Caledonia)
47 Gladstone Road Suva Fiji
Airport in New Caledonia
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.