How to Call New Caledonia
Complete guide to dialing New Caledonia (country code +687)
Staying connected with friends, family, or business contacts in New Caledonia doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're planning your first call or looking to avoid common pitfalls, understanding how to call New Caledonia correctly will save you time and frustration. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling New Caledonia, from dialing the correct country and area codes to navigating different phone number formats. We'll cover the most frequent mistakes people make when placing international calls, share essential phone etiquette tips to help you communicate respectfully, and provide a list of useful numbers including emergency services and customer support lines. By the end of this guide, you'll feel confident making clear, successful connections to this beautiful Pacific island territory.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial New Caledonia: Complete International Calling Guide
Calling New Caledonia requires understanding the proper international dialing format. This Pacific island territory uses country code +687 and has a straightforward numbering system for both mobile and landline connections.
International Dialing Format Structure
The standard format for calling New Caledonia is:
Exit Code + 687 + Local Number
New Caledonia uses 6-digit local numbers with no leading zeros to drop. The complete number format is simply: +687 XX XX XX
Calling from Different Countries
From the USA or Canada:
- Dial 011 (exit code)
- Dial 687 (country code)
- Dial the 6-digit local number
From the UK and most European countries:
- Dial 00 (exit code)
- Dial 687 (country code)
- Dial the 6-digit local number
From Australia:
- Dial 0011 (exit code)
- Dial 687 (country code)
- Dial the 6-digit local number
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Calling a Nouméa landline from USA:
To call +687 26 45 78: dial 011-687-26-45-78
Example 2 - Calling a New Caledonian mobile from UK:
To call +687 75 32 19: dial 00-687-75-32-19
Mobile numbers in New Caledonia typically start with 7, 8, or 9, while landlines begin with other digits.
Example 3 - Calling a business landline from Australia:
To call +687 28 91 45: dial 0011-687-28-91-45
Important Notes
New Caledonia doesn't use area codes or leading zeros in its numbering system, making it simpler than many countries. When you see a local number advertised as "26 45 78," you simply add the country code when dialing internationally. Mobile and landline numbers follow the same 6-digit format, distinguished only by their starting digits. Always include your country's exit code before the 687 country code for successful international connections.
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Common Mistakes
When calling New Caledonia, avoid these common mistakes:
Forgetting to drop the local leading zero. If a New Caledonian number starts with 0 locally, remove it when dialing internationally. The country code +687 replaces that zero. Example: Local number 05 12 34 should be dialed as +687 5 12 34.
Using the wrong exit code. Different countries have different exit codes (011 for USA/Canada, 00 for most of Europe). Know your country's exit code or simply use the + symbol, which works universally on mobile phones by holding the 0 key.
Adding extra digits or area codes. New Caledonia uses a simple 6-digit numbering system with no area codes. After +687, dial only the 6-digit local number—nothing more.
Including incorrect spacing. While spacing doesn't affect the connection, inconsistent formatting causes confusion. Standard format is +687 XX XX XX for clarity.
Confusing the country code with other Pacific nations. New Caledonia's +687 differs from nearby French Polynesia (+689) and Fiji (+679). Double-check you're using the correct code to avoid misdialing.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in New Caledonia, understanding local customs helps build better connections with both Kanak and French-influenced communities.
Greetings and Formality
Begin calls with "Bonjour" (good morning/afternoon) or "Bonsoir" (good evening). French is the official language, though many locals speak Kanak languages and French-based dialects. Start formally with "Monsieur" or "Madame" until invited to use first names, especially in business contexts.
Business vs Personal Calls
Business calls should maintain professional French etiquette—be punctual, polite, and prepared. Personal calls tend to be warmer and more relaxed, reflecting the laid-back island culture. Kanak communities particularly value relationship-building conversation before getting to business matters.
Timing Matters
Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:00-2:00 PM), as this is sacred time for meals in French Pacific culture. Best times are mid-morning (9:00-11:30 AM) or late afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM). Evenings after 7:00 PM are reserved for family time.
Voice Messages
Keep messages brief and clear. State your name, reason for calling, and contact information. Follow up if you haven't received a response within two business days.
Cultural Considerations
Respect the slower pace of island life—conversations may take longer than in metropolitan areas. Show patience and avoid rushing. In Kanak communities, acknowledging family connections and taking time for proper greetings demonstrates respect for traditional values of community and kinship.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers:
- Police (Gendarmerie): 17
- Ambulance (SAMU): 15
- Fire Department (Pompiers): 18
- General Emergency Number: 112 (connects to appropriate service)
- Maritime Rescue (MRCC): 16 or +687 27 16 16
- Poison Control: +687 26 60 66
Important Information:
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible 24/7 from both landlines and mobile phones throughout New Caledonia. The European standard emergency number 112 works on all mobile networks, even without credit or in areas with limited coverage.
French is the primary language for emergency operators, though some English-speaking assistance may be available in tourist areas. For serious emergencies in remote locations, contact your accommodation or local authorities who can facilitate communication with emergency services if language barriers exist.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 1012: Directory assistance for local numbers and business inquiries
International Services
- 1013: International operator for assistance with overseas calls
- 00: International dialing prefix when calling abroad
Tourist Information
- +687 26 42 00: New Caledonia Tourism Office for travel information and guidance
Embassy Contacts
- Australian Consulate: +687 27 24 14
- French High Commission: +687 26 80 00
- New Zealand Consulate: +687 27 25 43
Utility Services
- Enercal (Electricity): +687 26 70 00
- Caledonian Water: +687 43 29 00
Transportation
- Tontouta International Airport: +687 35 11 11
- Air Calédonie: +687 25 21 77
Healthcare Information
- MedipĂ´le Hospital: +687 20 90 00
- Pharmacies on duty information: +687 27 00 00
Tips for Calling New Caledonia
When calling New Caledonia (UTC+11), timing matters for successful connections. The islands are typically 9-11 hours ahead of US time zones and 1-2 hours ahead of Australian Eastern Time, so calculate carefully to avoid inconvenient hours.
For business calls, schedule between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM local time, Monday through Friday. Always arrange appointments in advance, as this demonstrates professionalism and ensures availability. Avoid calling during the extended lunch break from noon to 1:30 PM when many offices close.
Consider off-peak calling times (evenings and weekends) for better rates if using traditional phone services, though this suits personal calls only. Be mindful of French public holidays, including Bastille Day (July 14) and New Caledonia Day (September 24), when most businesses close.
For clearer communication, speak slowly and clearly—French is the official language, though English is understood in tourism and business sectors. Ask if your contact prefers French or English at the call's start. Keep a stable internet connection for VoIP calls, as island connectivity can occasionally fluctuate. Having important points written down beforehand ensures productive conversations despite any language barriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for New Caledonia is +687. You'll need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to New Caledonia from anywhere in the world.
To call New Caledonia from your cell phone, dial the international exit code (usually + or 011 from the US), then 687 (New Caledonia's country code), followed by the 6-digit local phone number. For example: +687-XXXXXX.
New Caledonia phone numbers don't typically start with a zero. The local numbers are 6 digits long, and you simply dial +687 followed by the complete 6-digit number without any modifications.
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In New Caledonia, dial 15 for medical emergencies (SAMU), 17 for police, and 18 for fire services. These numbers can be dialed directly without the country code when you're physically located in New Caledonia.
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