Port-Laguerre Research Station

The Port-Laguerre Research Station is a cornerstone of New Caledonia’s agricultural heritage, located near Païta, about 30 kilometers northwest of Nouméa. Established in the late 19th century, the station was designed to test the viability of various crops such as tobacco, coffee, and grain in the colony’s tropical environment. The development of its buildings and fields was largely carried out by convict labor, reflecting the complex social history of the era. Over the years, Port-Laguerre evolved into a prominent agricultural school, playing a crucial role in educating generations of local farmers and modernizing the territory's farming practices. Today, the station remains a place of both scientific and historical interest. Its expansive grounds feature striking avenues of ancient trees and well-preserved colonial buildings that offer a glimpse into the past. For visitors, a trip to Port-Laguerre provides an insightful look at the intersection of history, science, and the landscape, showcasing the long-term efforts to adapt European agricultural techniques to the unique conditions of the South Pacific.

Nearby cities

Vallée du Tir

Vallée du Tir is a popular and historical district of Nouméa, located near the harbor.

Nouméa

Nouméa is the capital and largest city of New Caledonia, situated on a peninsula in the southwest of the main island.

Vallée des Colons

Vallée des Colons is a historical residential district in Nouméa with many traditional colonial-style houses.

East Vallée des Colons

East Vallée des Colons is the extension of the historical district towards the hills of Nouméa.

Lemon Bay

Baie des Citrons is a popular neighborhood in Nouméa featuring a sheltered bay ideal for swimming.

Anse Vata

Anse Vata is the tourist heart of Nouméa, characterized by hotels, restaurants, and a long beach.

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 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.

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'.

La Foa

La Foa is an agricultural center located in the central-western part of Grande Terre.

History & landmarks

Nouméa City Hall

The city hall of Nouméa is housed in a prominent building located at the edge of the Place des Cocotiers.

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.

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Mont Mou Petroglyphs

Mysterious ancient rock carvings at the foot of Mont Mou, depicting cultural symbols of early inhabitants.

Mont Mou

Mont Mou is a distinctive mountain near Païta.

Païta Church

This church serves the Païta community and is a key landmark in the rapidly growing suburb of Nouméa.

Païta Old Railway

Remnants of New Caledonia's only public railway line, which once connected Nouméa to Païta.