Welcome to New Caledonia 🇳🇨 — a remarkable destination in Melanesia. Its official name is New Caledonia, and today around 292,639 people call this Oceania nation home, spread across roughly 18,575 km² of territory.
Below is your complete country profile for New Caledonia: key statistics, an introduction to Nouméa, an interactive map, cultural notes and answers to the questions people most often ask about this corner of Oceania.
Geography of New Caledonia
Geographically, New Caledonia belongs to Melanesia within Oceania. Its territory spans approximately 18,575 km², which makes it the 156th largest country or territory on Earth.
New Caledonia has no land borders at all — it is surrounded entirely by water, and this island setting has given it a distinct identity, ecosystem and way of life.
The capital city is Nouméa, the political and cultural heart of the country and usually the first stop for visitors who want to understand how new caledonian life really works.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
People, language and culture
Around 292,639 people live in New Caledonia, making it the 185th most populous country or territory in the world. A person from New Caledonia is called a New Caledonian.
The main language spoken here is French. Learning even a handful of phrases before a visit goes a long way with locals.
Beyond the numbers, everyday culture in New Caledonia — from markets and music to family traditions — is what makes discovering it through a random spin so rewarding.
Currency, travel and practical facts
The official currency is the CFP franc (XPF, symbol â‚£). Exchange rates fluctuate, so check current rates before travelling.
The international dialling code for New Caledonia is +687. Websites from the country typically use the .nc internet domain.
Quiz tip: the three facts most worth memorising about New Caledonia are its flag, its capital Nouméa, and its approximate population of 292,639.
Fun facts about New Caledonia
- New Caledonia's flag emoji is 🇳🇨 — its two-letter country code is NC and its three-letter code is NCL.
- New Caledonia covers 18,575 km², ranking 156th in the world by area.
- With about 292,639 people, New Caledonia holds the 185th spot in the world population ranking.
- New Caledonia is not a full member state of the United Nations.
- New Caledonia is completely surrounded by water, with zero land borders.
New Caledonia — frequently asked questions
- What is the capital of New Caledonia?
- The capital of New Caledonia is Nouméa.
- What is the population of New Caledonia?
- New Caledonia has a population of approximately 292,639 people, ranking 185th in the world.
- Where is New Caledonia located?
- New Caledonia is located in Melanesia, part of the Oceania region.
- What language is spoken in New Caledonia?
- The main language spoken in New Caledonia is French.
- What currency is used in New Caledonia?
- New Caledonia uses the CFP franc (XPF).
