What is the climate and natural environment like in New Caledonia?
Posted on Jan 08, 2026 / Travel
New Caledonia has a predominantly subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, moderated by trade winds and marked wet and dry seasons. Rainfall is highest from December to March, with the east coast receiving significantly more rain than the drier west coast. The islands feature dramatic natural diversity, from rainforests and montane forests to savannas and mangrove swamps, reflecting varied landscapes across elevations and soil types. The surrounding marine environment includes the New Caledonian barrier reef — one of the longest continuous barrier reefs in the world, enclosing large lagoons that are rich in coral and marine diversity and designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Terrestrial wildlife includes unique bird species like the kagu and rare endemic plants found only in the archipelago. This remarkable biodiversity — both on land and in the sea — attracts scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. The natural environment contributes to the identity of New Caledonia as both a biological and scenic treasure.
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