Plizio Visual Lab
Plum Old Brickworks
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Industrial site
Weather…
Water temperature…
The ruins of the Plum Old Brickworks are located in the southern part of Grande Terre, situated near the well-known mineral springs of Plum. Established in 1883, this industrial site was fundamental to the expansion of Nouméa during the colonial era. The distinctive red bricks manufactured here provided the primary building material for many of the capital's historic landmarks, including churches and government offices that still stand today. The site was originally selected for its high-quality clay deposits and its proximity to the coast, which allowed for efficient maritime transport of the heavy bricks. Although the factory has long since ceased operations, the remnants of its kilns and structural foundations offer a glimpse into the early industrial history of New Caledonia. The brickworks serves as a significant heritage site, illustrating the transition from traditional building methods to industrial-scale production in the late 19th century.
- Location: New Caledonia
- Top sights: Église de Plum · Chapelle Américaine · Plage de Carcassone
- Nearby: Boulari (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 109 | 99 | 161 | 104 | 94 | 80 | 68 | 58 | 42 | 41 | 65 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The old brickworks at Plum is a historic industrial site near Nouméa. Its kilns produced bricks for many colonial buildings in the capital during the 19th century.
Visiting
The remains are accessible outdoors; some structures may be fragile. Usually the site can be walked around free of charge.
Where to view it
From the road or a short path, the brick kiln chimneys and ruins are visible. The site is set in a forest clearing.
Local products
Nothing is produced here today; the site is an archaeological relic. Nearby shops sell local handicrafts.
Active season
The site is open year-round as a historical landmark. Best visited during the dry season when paths are easier to traverse.
Nearby
Combine the visit with Plum beach or the nearby Parc Provincial de la Vallée de la Dumbéa. The Tjibaou Cultural Centre is also not far.
Geography
Facts
- Operational between approximately 1870 and 1910.
- Provided building materials for the Nouméa Cathedral.
- Located near the Plum River for easy water access.
- Utilized a Hoffman-style continuous kiln for efficiency.
- Most of the heavy labor was performed by transportés (convicts).
- Classified as a protected industrial heritage site today.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Plum Old Brickworks (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the historical significance of the brickyard?
It was a hub for local building material production during the early colonial period.
Can the industrial site be visited?
The facility is largely a ruin and can be viewed from the outside.
When is the best season to visit?
It is most pleasant during the cooler season from June to September.
Are there parking facilities nearby?
There is limited roadside parking near Plum.
What is the Plum region known for?
The Plum region is known for its natural tranquility and proximity to the bay.
Plum Old Brickworks: where is it located?
Plum Old Brickworks is located in New Caledonia.
Plum Old Brickworks: what is there to see?
Highlights include Église de Plum, Chapelle Américaine, Plage de Carcassone.
Plum Old Brickworks: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Plum Old Brickworks: why is it worth visiting?
The ruins of the Plum Old Brickworks are located in the southern part of Grande Terre, situated near the well-known mineral springs of Plum.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Oceania
More places in New Caledonia →
Nearby cities
East Vallée des Colons
East Vallée des Colons is the extension of the historical district towards the hills of Nouméa.
Vallée des Colons
Vallée des Colons is a historical residential district in Nouméa with many traditional colonial-style houses.
Nouméa
Nouméa is the capital and largest city of New Caledonia, situated on a peninsula in the southwest of the main island.
Anse Vata
Anse Vata is the tourist heart of Nouméa, characterized by hotels, restaurants, and a long beach.
Vallée du Tir
Vallée du Tir is a popular and historical district of Nouméa, located near the harbor.
Lemon Bay
Baie des Citrons is a popular neighborhood in Nouméa featuring a sheltered bay ideal for swimming.
Dumbéa
Dumbéa is a rapidly growing suburb of Nouméa and part of the Great Nouméa metropolitan area.
La Conception
La Conception is a mission village in Mont-Dore with a significant religious history.
Boulari
Boulari is the administrative center of the Mont-Dore commune, situated on a picturesque bay.
Thio
Thio is considered the cradle of nickel mining in New Caledonia, located on the southeast coast.
Païta
Païta is located west of Nouméa and hosts the territory's primary international airport.
Païta Pioneer District
Païta is known for its history as the first major settlement outside Nouméa.
Magenta
Magenta is a district of Nouméa that hosts the territory's domestic airport.
Rivière-Salée
Rivière-Salée is a large residential district in northern Nouméa, named after the local 'salty river'.
Yahoué
Yahoué is a green residential district in Dumbéa, located at the foot of the mountains and known for its tranquility.
History & landmarks
More places
Doniambo
Doniambo is the industrial heart of Nouméa, home to the massive SLN nickel smelter.
Ducos
Ducos is the primary industrial and commercial zone of Nouméa, located on its own peninsula.
Vallon-Dore
The Vallon-Dore is a valley at the foot of Mont-Dore, known for its fertile coastal zone.
Mont-Dore Bottling Plant
This plant bottles the famous Mont-Dore mineral water.
Vallon-Dore Historic Estates
An area in Mont-Dore commune known for its old colonial estates and agricultural pioneers.
Mont-Dore Mining History
The slopes of Mont-Dore were the site of early chrome and nickel mines that shaped the mountain's appearance.
Villa de Saint-Louis
This historical villa located near the Saint-Louis mission is a significant example of colonial residential architecture.
Saint-Louis Mission
Founded in 1856, this mission was a key religious and agricultural center.