|
|
back to resources...
|
[an error occurred while processing this directive]
|
Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and safe when it comes to travel to New Caledonia...
Natural Disasters
Cyclone season in New Caledonia is from November to April. During the cyclone season the French High Commission provides weather information to the general public on a phone hotline (+687) 26 63 20 (only in French).
If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local laws and legal processes can be very different from those at home. A violation of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or unjust by your standards.
New Caledonia is an Overseas Country within the French Republic and French law applies, including the principle of "Garde Vue" according to which an arrested person may not have immediate access to a lawyer or their consular representative. Garde Vue is a period of detention under French law that is loosely equivalent to 'assisting police with their enquiries'. Depending on the gravity of the circumstances and charges under consideration, it can vary from a few hours to three days.
Under French law, failing to offer assistance to a person in danger is illegal. This means that if you fail to stop upon witnessing a motor vehicle accident, fail to report such an accident to emergency services, or ignore appeals for help or urgent assistance, you may be charged. Penalties include a suspended prison sentence and a fine. The law does not apply in situations where to answer an appeal for help might endanger your life or the lives of others.
You are required by French law to carry your passport at all times.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions are subject to change. For up-to-date visa information, travellers should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of New Caledonia, well in advance of travel.
Health Issues
There is only one hyperbaric (decompression) chamber in New Caledonia, located in Noumea. Many of the popular dive sites are located on other islands and it may take several hours to reach facilities in the event of an accident. All registered dive companies carry basic treatment equipment to meet PADI standards.
Outbreaks of the mosquito-borne disease dengue fever are frequent, especially during the warm wet months of March to May.
Medical and hospital costs in New Caledonia are extremely high. For example, an intensive care bed in Noumea could cost up to A$4,000 per day. Ambulance transfers, even for short distances, can cost $A1,250 or more. A helicopter evacuation from one of the islands to Noumea will cost in excess of A$6,500. An aeromedical evacuation from Noumea to Australia can exceed $A40,000. Passengers on cruise ships are routinely evacuated to Noumea for hospitalisation. Cruise passengers are strongly encouraged to take out travel insurance appropriate to their circumstances.
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about immunisations and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides information for travellers and also provides useful tips for staying healthy while travelling overseas.
We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
|
|
|
|
|
