There may be a whole lot more to little old New Zealand than three tiny islands tucked away in the Pacific.

The number of unprovoked shark attacks across the world fell last year, in the wake of a record figure in 2015 that scientists partly put down to warmers waters created by a strong El Nino system.

Life is just a beach of parrot fish poo in New Caledonia for Maureen Marriner.

The growth in new air routes is stoking travel by New Zealanders to new destinations, according to a House of Travel survey.

Noumea-based Aircalin is upgrading its fleet, opting for Airbus A320s and A330s

We are at the final leg of our trip and what better way to finish than the tropical destination of New Caledonia!

It is the second fatal attack in the South Pacific territory in six months.

The Jurassic-like landscape and quirky flora and fauna of the island of New Caledonia captivates Liz Light.

Listening to the gentle breeze in the palm trees and the lazy waves gently turning, time slows for Liz Light.

In an azure and cobalt bay, gentle sea creatures welcome Phil Welch to the 'closest island to paradise'.

Belinda Henley explores beyond Noumea and discovers a land of red earth and dramatic scenery.

Experience French fare or go kite surfing, says Megan Singleton.

Language is no barrier where enjoyment is a universal concept, writes Julia Carlisle.

Immerse yourself in French culture for a slice of the price, says Megan Singleton.

French food and wine are the tops in Noumea, finds Sarah Lawrence.

Smiles, spinnakers and hangovers prevail in the world's friendliest yacht race, writes Ian Lloyd Neubauer.

Jennifer Ennion savours the rare wildlife and mythic scenery of the South Pacific.

Pamela Wade visits New Caledonia's southernmost atoll for a veritable feast.

A New Caledonian island offers a rustic, unspoilt escape, discovers Nikki Birrell.

Every November, New Caledonia swings to the rhythms of gypsy jazz - a style popularised in Paris in the 1930s to 1950s by guitarist Django Reinhardt and violinist Stephane Grappelli.

New Caledonia's Napoemien tribe live a self-sufficient lifestyle, writes Sue Baxalle.

If a cruise seems like an old-age holiday, think again. By Chris Marriner.

New Caledonia has much more to offer than top shopping and French food.

Pomp and ceremony joined with a mutual love of rugby in John Key's one-day visit to Paris.

Carnaval de Noumea - the Noumea Carnival - is a major festival held in the New Caledonian capital every April.

A developing tropical cyclone could threaten New Zealand next week, a weather prediction website has warned.