What is the currency of New Caledonia?

New Caledonia’s currency is the Pacific franc, which is abbreviated to either CFP or XPF. The Pacific franc is pegged to the euro at a fixed rate of exchange, with international exchange rates applying to all other currencies, including Australian and New Zealand dollars.

What currency do they use in Nouméa?

As a part of New Caledonia, Nouméa’s currency is also the Pacific franc.

What denominations are local banknotes and coins? 

Since September 2021, new coins have entered into circulation. Unlike Australia or New Zealand, where the dollar is divided into 100 cents, the franc is the smallest local currency unit. 

Banknote denominations in circulation:

• 10,000 XPF (approx. $144 NZD)

• 5,000 XPF (approx. $72 NZD)

• 1,000 XPF (approx. $14 NZD)

• 500 XPF (approx. $7 NZD

Coin denominations in circulation:

• 200 XPF (approx. $2.88 NZD)

• 100 XPF (approx. $1.44 NZD)

• 50 XPF (approx. $0.72 NZD)

• 20 XPF (approx. $0.29 NZD)

• 10 XPF (approx. $0.14 NZD)

• 5 XPF (approx. $0.07 NZD)

Where can I find Pacific francs? 

Keep things simple and avoid unwanted stress by withdrawing cash from the BNC or BCI branch ATMs on your arrival at Nouméa Airport, or by heading to the BCI foreign exchange office near the Cruise Ship Terminal if you happen to be a cruise ship passenger.

If you are visiting the city centre of Noumea, the N°1 Currency exchange office is open from 9am to 4.45pm Monday to Friday and accepts several currencies (banknotes only). Address: 35 avenue Foch, Complexe Le Village. Tel: +687 45 11 48.

Most banks in Nouméa have foreign exchange counters in their downtown branches, open Monday to Friday from 7.30 am to 3.30 pm, except on bank holidays. Some branches also provide exchange services in the bush.

Please note: You’ll need to supply sufficient proof of identity if you plan to exchange currencies at the foreign exchange office. Commission charges also do vary between banks.

You’ll find 24 hour currency exchange machines outside the following banks:

• BNP - 111 promenade Roger Laroque, Anse Vata, Nouméa
• BCI - 55 promenade Roger Laroque, Baie des Citrons, Nouméa
• BCI - 20 rue Anatole France, Downtown, Nouméa
• BNC - in front of Casino Johnston supermarket, quai Jules Ferry, Nouméa

Can you use travellers cheques in New Caledonia?

Banks in New Caledonia no longer accept travellers cheques.

Can you pay by card in New Caledonia?

Major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard and American Express, are widely accepted in shops and stores across New Caledonia. 

American Express cards are fairly widely accepted in New Caledonia, but, unfortunately, you won’t be able to use your card to withdraw cash from an ATM using your card.

If you are planning to travel to the bush (outside Greater Nouméa) or the islands, it is, however, best to ensure that you have a stock of cash with you in case you cannot pay by card. Almost all hotels do accept credit card payments, but some types of accommodation, including gîtes (holiday homes available to rent), guest houses and tribal accommodation, may not. It’s recommended that you have enough cash to cover your activities and food too.