What many visitors may not know is that the New Caledonian waters are home to the world's largest lagoon and second largest coral reef.
In 2008, six parts of New Caledonia were enlisted as World Heritage sites for their exceptional marine biodiversity. Just three short hours from Auckland, visitors can experience New Caledonia's lagoon, beautiful wildlife, adventurous diving hotspots and more.
About the New Caledonian lagoon:
New Caledonia is an extensive group of islands home to a diverse and distinctive range of landscapes and ecosystems. From terrestrial woodlands and mountains to rainforest areas, New Caledonia is a getaway hotspot. Inhabited by an abundance of creatures, there is extraordinary plant and animal life to be found throughout the island.
The vast lagoon is one of the largest marine reserves in the world. Its coral reef is one of the main nesting sites for illustrious turtle breeds, rare crab species, and tropical seabirds. July also marks the beginning of the cool season and the return of the humpback whales to the lagoon's deep waters.
Above the water:
Just as beautiful from up high, paraglide, helicopter, skydive or sit up in the cockpit of a light plane to see the contrasting blues and depths of the lagoon https://www.newcaledonia.travel/nz/adventure-sensations/air-leisure
On the water:
• Boardsports For the adrenaline lovers, warm waves and constant breezes make for the perfect conditions to surf, windsurf, kitesurf, or wakeboard.
• Sailing A favourite Caledonian pastime, experienced and beginner sailors will love the countless ways to enjoy the coast. Enjoy the unique opportunities to cross paths with dolphins, turtles, and other inhabitants of the lagoon.
The slower life:
• Heavenly untouched beaches There's countless islets to explore the wonders of nature: gorgeous seascapes teeming with fish and a sparkling white sand beach.
• Fishing Whether it's ancestral or modern techniques, fishing is a part of the DNA of the South Pacific archipelago. Ranked in the top 5 sites in the world for fly-fishing, you can see fishermen in the Northern parts of the lagoon fishing in low tide, and often bringing in some big catches.
Under the water:
• Snorkelling & diving Coral pinnacles shelter multi-coloured sealife that is often accessible even without wearing a tank. With only a mask, flippers and a snorkel, a swimmer can also see butterfly fish, triggerfish, parrotfish and clownfish.
The shores of the lagoon:
• Discover the Tjibaou Cultural Centre designed by Italian architect, Renzo Piano (who designed the Pompidou Centre in Paris), guests can learn about the indigenous Kanak culture through interactive exhibitions, shows and concerts.
Taste the lagoon:
• A Seafood Paradise Treat yourself to freshly-caught prawns, lobsters, oysters, marlin, mackerel, crab and mussels. The market at Port Moselle in Nouméa is one of the best places to pick up fresh seafood, caught hours earlier by the local fishermen.
• Dinner with a view Enjoy the restaurants and bars with stunning views of the lagoon.
Stay as close to the lagoon as you can:
• L'Escapade Island Resort Nouméa Featuring the only overwater bungalows in New Caledonia, this resort is true paradise. Surrounded by a natural marine reserve, this hotel has been created in perfect harmony with the environment. The island and overwater bungalows and the swim up bar provide a unique setting that combines luxury and tranquillity with a tropical backdrop.
• Le Méridien Noumea Resort & Spa A unique blend of French sophistication and warm Pacific island ambience. Located on the beachfront overlooking Noumea's Anse Vata bay, it's nestled in the heart of tropical landscaped gardens. Enjoy the recently refurbished suites, the sumptuous Deep Nature Spa with treatment rooms, a sauna, hammam and spa.
Surrounds
• Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort offers guests a unique blend of French sophistication and Pacific Island warmth. Explore the Reef's diverse marine life, enjoy a treatment at the Deep Nature Spa and tee-off at the 18-hole golf course. Experience bursts of local flavours, live cooking shows, divine cocktails and wine with ocean views.
With Nouméa only three hours from Auckland, New Caledonia is fast becoming a destination where travellers can have it all. For your chance to win an unforgettable trip to New Caledonia, tell us what you'd love to discover on the islands. For more information visit: www.newcaledonia.travel/nz