South Pacific.

GMT + 11.

18,575 sq km (7172 sq miles).

220,000 (official estimate 2000).

10.6 per sq km.

Nouméa. Population: 196,836 (1996).

New Caledonia consists of the Mainland, the Isle of Pines to the south of the Mainland, the Loyalty Islands to the east of the Mainland (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 (16,372 for the Mainland alone, which is 400km long). The Mainland is divided by a range of mountains (Châine Centrale), the highest points of which are Mount Pancé in the north (1629m) and Mount Humboldt in the south (1618m). Various species of trees can be found here. This unusual relief divides the Grande Terre/Mainland 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).

Following administrative reforms introduced after the Matignon Accord, New Caledonia is governed by three Regional Assemblies: Southern Region (32 members), Northern Region (15 members), and Loyalty Islands (seven members). Together these form a Territorial Congress, headed by the High Commissioner. The High Commissioner is advised by an eight-member ‘Consultative Committee’ selected from leading figures on the island.

French Overseas Territory since 1957. Head of State: President Jacques Chirac, represented locally by High Commissioner Daniel Constantin since 2002. Head of Government: Marie-Noelle Themereau since 2004.

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 per cent Roman Catholic.

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.

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