Volunteers Quay

The Quai des Volontaires (Volunteers Quay) in Nouméa is a site of profound historical weight, representing New Caledonia's pivotal role in the Free French Forces during World War II. It was from this very quay on May 5, 1941, that the men of the Pacific Battalion (Bataillon du Pacifique) set sail to join the global fight against the Axis powers. Following General de Gaulle's historic appeal in June 1940, New Caledonia was one of the first territories to declare its allegiance to Free France. The volunteers, a diverse force of European settlers and indigenous Kanak people, went on to distinguish themselves in critical conflicts such as the Battle of Bir Hakeim in North Africa and the subsequent liberation of France. Today, a commemorative plaque at the quay honors their bravery and ultimate sacrifice. The site serves not only as a monument to the Resistance but as a lasting symbol of local identity and regional pride. The quay today balances the functional maritime bustle of the harbor with the quiet reverence of a historic memorial.

Nearby cities

Nouméa

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

Vallée du Tir

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

Vallée des Colons

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

Lemon Bay

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

East Vallée des Colons

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

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

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'.

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.

Old Gaston-Bourret Hospital

The original hospital building in central Nouméa is a significant example of colonial public architecture.

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.

Old Nouméa Semaphore

Located on a hill, this tower served in the 19th century for communication with ships.

Historic Noumea Wharf

The spot where the first settlers and goods arrived, marking the beginning of Nouméa's modern urban development.

Port of Noumea

The Port of Noumea is the logistical heart of New Caledonia.

Nouméa Old City Hall

A beautiful colonial building on the edge of Place des Cocotiers, which formerly housed the City Hall and is now the City Museum.

Maritime Museum of New Caledonia

The museum in an old building near the harbor showcases maritime history, from James Cook's discovery to the shipwrecks of La Pérouse.

Point Zero of Noumea

The marker on the Place des Cocotiers from which all distances on the island of New Caledonia are measured.