New Caledonia

We currently advise that all New Zealanders do not travel overseas at this time due to the outbreak of COVID-19, associated health risks and widespread travel restrictions.

The global situation remains complex and rapidly changing. International travel can be complicated with fewer international flights available and disruptions to transit routes and hubs. Any destination could experience a sudden increase in cases of COVID-19 and a heightened risk to travellers of contracting the virus. Strict health measures and movement restrictions could be imposed suddenly. Should you decide to travel despite our advice, be prepared to remain overseas longer than you intended. You should also be aware that your travel insurance may not cover travel disruption or medical expenses.

Managed Isolation and Quarantine in New Zealand
All travellers to New Zealand must undertake 14 days of government-provided managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ). Detailed information about MIQ requirements in New Zealand can be found at www.miq.govt.nz.

Pre-departure testing requirements for travellers to New Zealand
All travellers to New Zealand (excluding those from Antarctica, Australia and most Pacific Islands) must show evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result before departure. Detailed information about pre-departure testing requirements can be found on the Unite Against Covid-19 website here.

We recognise that some New Zealanders do continue to live and travel overseas. We continue to provide destination-specific advice about other safety and security risks below.

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New Caledonia

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport and motor vehicle theft and pickpocketing occurs in New Caledonia. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. 

While violent crime towards foreigners is not common, foreigners may be the targets of opportunistic crime, such as roadblocks, carjacking and stone throwing. Walking alone or travelling after dark is not recommended and if travelling by road, car doors should be locked and windows up. Dangerous driving is not uncommon – exercise caution on open roads at night.

Civil unrest
There have been isolated security incidents associated with protests, demonstrations and civil unrest in New Caledonia. Protest activity has the potential to restrict travel by main roads in and out of Noumea. New Zealanders should be cautious in particular on the RP1 near St Louis, and the highway north from Noumea to La Tontouta International airport, as this route has been subject to occasional security incidents in the past, which have caused injury.

New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning and should monitor the media to stay informed of local developments and  follow any instructions or restrictions issued by local authorities.

General travel advice
New Zealanders travelling or living in New Caledonia should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.  It is strongly recommended that coverage for pre-existing conditions be confirmed by your insurance providers. 

New Zealanders in New Caledonia are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

The New Zealand Consulate-General Noumea, New Caledonia

Street Address 27, Rue de Verdun, Nouméa, New Caledonia Postal Address New Zealand Consulate-General, B.P. 2219, 98 846 Noumea Cedex, Noumea Telephone +687 272 543 Alternate Telephone For urgent calls: +687 84 61 61 Fax +687 271 740 Email nznoumea@mfat.net Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/new-caledonia Hours Mon-Fri 0830-1130, 1330-1630

See our regional advice for the Pacific

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