South Pacific.

GMT + 11.

18,575 sq km (7,172 sq miles).

221,943 (CIA estimate 2007).

11.9 per sq km.

Nouméa. Population: 91,396 (2004).

New Caledonia consists of Grande Terre (Mainland), the Ile des Pins (Isle of Pines) to the south of Grande Terre, the Loyalty Islands to the east of Grande Terre (Maré, Lifou, Tiga and Ouvéa), the Belep Archipelago in the northwest, and numerous islands and islets (Huon & Surprise, Christfield, Walpole, Beautémps-Beaupré, Astrolabe and the Bellona reef); a total surface area of 19,000 sq km (7,340 sq miles) (16,372 sq km/6,321 sq miles for Grande Terre alone, which is 400km/249 miles long). Grande Terre is divided by a range of mountains (Châine Centrale), the highest points of which are Mount Pancé in the north (1,629m/5,344ft) and Mount Humboldt in the south (1,618m/5,308ft). Various species of trees can be found here. This unusual relief divides Grande Terre into the East coast (humid and open to trade winds; fertile and exotic with lush tropical vegetation) from the West coast (dry and temperate; filled with niaouli trees, cattle and beautiful beaches).

French Overseas Territory since 1957.  

President Nicolas Sarkozy since 2007, represented locally by High Commissioner Yves Dassonville since 2005.

Harold Martin since 2007.

French is the official language, but there are approximately 30 different Melanesian languages. English and Japanese are also widely spoken.

Vast Christian majority, with 59% Roman Catholic.

220 volts AC, 50Hz. European-style, two-pin plugs are in use.

There is a casual atmosphere, and local traditions still prevail alongside European customs. Casual wear is the norm, but smart restaurants require a more formal style of dress. Long trousers are required for men at night in restaurants and casinos.