Location #7: New Caledonia

Alright, we’ve got a new one from our time in New Caledonia, an island nation in the South Pacific. As a reminder, we're journeying to the most remote and interesting dive sites in the world, connecting with people who have dedicated their lives to ocean science, conservation, restoration and discovery.

In the midst of alarming environmental news, we're highlighting the progress and positive impact made by individuals and communities—from those living on the fringe to those in the center of it all.?

However, this log's a bit different. We did some diving in the remote south of New Caledonia, but realized there was just as much to explore topside. As we made our way from south to north, things took a turn and got a bit ... heavy.

We hope these insights from the edges of earth offer a fresh perspective of what it means to travel consciously.?

WHERE WE’VE BEEN?

July 2023 - Isle of Pines & Hienghène, New Caledonia?

Known for its vastness, this French territory has a total land area of approximately 18,500 square kilometers (7,200 square miles), including the main island, Grande Terre, and the four Loyalty Islands, including Lifou, Maré, Ouvéa and Tiga. Also part of the country is Isle of Pines, a group of 14 islands known for its idyllic sandy beaches and towering trees.

READ ABOUT IT

Starting with a search for leopard sharks and the notable Araucaria trees in the south, we ended up venturing far north to meet the indigenous Kanak people. Living with the Tiendanite tribe, we got a glimpse into the most remote regions of the country and its dark and troubled past.?

• ?? READ OUR PARTNER LOG - The Heart of New Cal: A conversation with indigenous leader Davina on the North-South divide in New Caledonia and the impact on the Kanak people.

• ?? READ OUR FIELD LOG - Haunted of Heavy?: Spirit stories of the Kanak people's profound past kept us up at night, marking the beginning of many such tales we’d encounter in the South Pacific.

• ?? READ OUR STORY in Oceanographic Magazine - The Depth of Resilience: A narrative of unity over New Caledonia’s reefs, where diverse backgrounds, disciplines, and even conflicting views converge around a common vision.

• ?? READ OUT STORY in SSI Scuba Schools International - The Resilient Reefs Initiative, A Beacon of Hope for the World's Coral Reefs: A deep dive into the Resilient Reef Initiative by the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, unveiling their new strategy to safeguard New Caledonia's double barrier reef.

WANT TO SEE IT??

PEOPLE WE LOVE

The journey across New Caledonia reminded us that this nation, with its vast lagoon and vibrant biodiversity, is not merely a place for exploration—it’s a land cherished by the Kanak people for thousands of years. The history of modernization and the challenges faced by the Kanak community serve as serious reminders of the importance of respecting and understanding the perspectives and way of life of original custodians of any land we traverse.?

Davina: A 35-year-old community leader of the Tiendenite tribe, she serves as a bridge between her 6,000-year-old Kanak community and visitors eager to understand their world. Situated near Hienghène, famous for its unique rock formations like "Chicken Rock," her tribal accommodations offer both simplicity and cultural depth. Though jovial and quick to laugh, Davina carries the weighty history of her tribe, marked by French colonization and enduring struggles. Her stories, imbued with ancestral spirits and the harsh realities of the past, make your stay a complex blend of fun and sobering reflection.?

FOLLOW

Want to follow us in real time? You can!?

Subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates from every location we are visiting around the world. And you can also visit our website.