Mont Aoupinié

Mont Aoupinié is a prominent peak in the central mountain range of New Caledonia, rising to an elevation of 1,006 meters near the town of Poya. The mountain and its surrounding area are designated as a nature reserve, protecting one of the most intact rainforest ecosystems in the South Pacific. Its slopes are characterized by dense, humid tropical vegetation, which serves as a vital refuge for New Caledonia's unique biodiversity. The reserve is particularly famous among ornithologists and birdwatchers, as it is a key habitat for several endemic bird species, including the rare, flightless Kagu and the giant imperial pigeon. The high altitude and frequent cloud cover support a wide array of ancient plant life, such as arborescent ferns and rare conifers that have survived since the era of Gondwana. Accessing the peak requires navigating steep, often misty trails, but it has an unparalleled opportunity to experience a primary forest that has remained largely untouched by modern development.

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 Old Village

A historic mining and agricultural center in the north.

Koumac

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

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

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

Voh Pioneer History

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

History & landmarks

Koné City Hall

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

Adio Caves

The Adio Caves are a complex cavern system located near Poya.

More places

Ducos

Ducos is the primary industrial and commercial zone of Nouméa, located on its own peninsula.

Doniambo

Doniambo is the industrial heart of Nouméa, home to the massive SLN nickel smelter.

Ouvéa

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