Bélep

The Bélep Islands are the northernmost outpost of New Caledonia, offering a rare look at an untouched Pacific lifestyle. Located far beyond the tip of the main island, Grande Terre, this remote archipelago consists of Art Island, Pott Island, and several smaller islets. The entire population is centered in the village of Waala on Art Island, where Kanak tribal traditions remain the cornerstone of social life. Historically, the islands gained notoriety in the 19th century as a designated leper colony, a past that is still remembered by the local families. Today, the islands are renowned for their incredible marine wealth, particularly the abundance of seafood and sea cucumbers, which are vital to the local economy. With no regular commercial flights, reaching Bélep requires a journey by boat or a rare charter flight, ensuring that its pristine lagoons and white-sand beaches remain undisturbed. It is a destination for those seeking true solitude and a deep connection with the seafaring culture of the South Pacific.

Nearby cities

Dumbéa

Dumbéa is a rapidly growing suburb of Nouméa and part of the Great Nouméa metropolitan area.

Kone Economic Pole

Kone has developed into the primary economic hub of the North Province.

Koné

Koné is the capital of the North Province and a vital center for the nickel industry in the north.

Thio

Thio is considered the cradle of nickel mining in New Caledonia, located on the southeast coast.

Païta Pioneer District

Païta is known for its history as the first major settlement outside Nouméa.

Païta

Païta is located west of Nouméa and hosts the territory's primary international airport.

Koumac

Koumac is a key service center in the far north of the main island, Grande Terre.

Koumac Old Village

A historic mining and agricultural center in the north.

Kouaoua

Kouaoua is a mining town on the east coast famous for having one of the world's longest conveyor belts.

Houaïlou

Houaïlou is a town on the east coast known for its lychee cultivation and mining tradition.

Poindimié

Poindimié is the most important economic and administrative center on the northeast coast of the main island.

Canala

Canala is a historical center of nickel mining on the east coast of New Caledonia.

Pouembout

Pouembout is a growing town in the North Province, closely linked to the development of Koné.

Voh Pioneer History

Famous for the 'Heart of Voh', the commune also has a rich history of coffee farming and early European settlement.

Voh

Voh is a northern commune world-famous for a natural heart shape within its mangroves.

History & landmarks

Koné City Hall

The city hall of Koné is the administrative center of the North Province of New Caledonia.

More places

Ouvéa

Ouvéa is a stunning coral atoll in the Loyalty Islands featuring a 25-kilometer long sandy beach.

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Poum Historical Mining

The northern tip of the island, where mining history was shaped by the extraction of copper and other minerals.

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Poum Church

The northernmost church on the main island of Grande Terre serves the small community in the Poum region.

Poum Mining Site

Poum in the far north is a significant area for nickel extraction.