New Caledonia

New Zealand has a long-standing relationship with New Caledonia, our closest Pacific neighbour. This relationship is guided by a Joint Cooperation Plan(external link) [PDF, 284 KB], which outlines shared priorities and strengthens political, economic, and cultural ties.

New Caledonia is a French overseas territory located in the southwest Pacific. Under the Nouméa Accord, which began in 1998, New Caledonia has gained increased autonomy through the progressive transfer of powers from France. France and New Caledonia are currently negotiating the territory’s future institutional status.

While France retains responsibility for foreign affairs, defence, immigration, policing, the judiciary, and currency, New Caledonia holds jurisdiction over other domestic matters. It also has the authority to engage with and join regional organisations.

New Caledonia has been a full member of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) since 2016 and actively participates in regional bodies such as the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and the Pacific Community (SPC). The SPC’s headquarters are located in Nouméa.

Development cooperation and sustainability

While New Zealand does not provide official development assistance to New Caledonia due to its high-income status, we continue to play a constructive role as a Pacific neighbour.

We support community-level engagement through the New Zealand Consulate-General Fund(external link) which provides small grants for local projects that promote social and economic development.

New Caledonian scholars are also eligible for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships Programme(external link), which offers tertiary and short-term training opportunities to support skills development and regional capacity building.

Trade and investment

New Caledonia has one of the largest and most developed economies in the Pacific region, making it a significant market for New Zealand exporters and businesses.

The territory’s economy is primarily driven by nickel exports, public sector services, and tourism. These sectors play a central role in supporting economic activity and employment across the islands.

Defence and security

The New Zealand Defence Force and the French Armed Forces in New Caledonia maintain a strong and collaborative relationship, working together across a range of operational areas.

This cooperation includes joint efforts in disaster response, search and rescue operations, maritime surveillance, and defence training exercises. These activities contribute to regional security and resilience and reflect our shared commitment to supporting Pacific communities.