Gestures Of Respect In New Caledonia

Created by doina. Last modified on 2005-07-19 12:47:38
Countries: New Caledonia

Even at the height of the troubles, foreign yachts were not greatly affected, as the conflict is an internal affair. Since "LES ACCORDS DE NOUMEA" were signed in 1998, PEACE is coming back to the Territory. Huge mining projects (SMSP & FALCONBRIDGE in the North, and GORO NICKEL & INCO in the South), will de developed over the next 5 years, time to built the factories. We take the French expression: "Quand le bâtiment va, tout va" to mean: "when the construction is growing and in health, everything is going fine". There is a big explosion in real estate too.

As regards the traditional call visitors should pay to the chief of the tribe or village, in all the civilizations of the world, it is necessary to do a gesture when one comes to someone. In the kanak world, it's the same thing. The CUSTOM is a manner of living, a code of social relations and there is a hierarchy to respect. The customary assemblies mark the landmarks of their life such as the celebration of the new igname (root), marriages, births and mourning. To establish a privileged relation with your hosts, you can offer a souvenir from your country as a T-shirt for example, (rice or food for the removed tribes) and indeed, its the gesture and the word that count. When they speak, they will say you that you are their hosts and they will protect you. Especially do not interrupt them when they speak. If they lower their eyes, its a manner to them of listening to you and giving you their respect. When arriving; leaving after a long stay; or if you want to visit a special place, it is necessary to inform them. More the gesture is simple and sincere and the better it will be perceived. No photos except if you ask permission. Decent attire. There will always be someone that observes you: therefore, not gather fruit without permission. You only stand to gain by acting this way!

We have also to try to attract the public attention that NEW CALEDONIA is really beautiful! Take time to visit the North, East and West side by renting a car (not so expensive, really) or by another form. Official campsites (with your tent) are clean and are an uncommon, special or unique experience to try (November-December)! PRONY (in the South) and PORT LAGUERRE are considered to be good hurricane holes. Prony is superb and wild... (nice, secure walking and one -or more days trip). Everyone passes by too quickly and misses a lot! Sailing around "the cailloux" (main island) is wonderful, protected into the lagoon. Navigation in the Lagoon is really great (Shom charts are available in two shops in town). Just be sure to ask fisherman or at the Noumea market, about the fish you catch: there are some "ciguatera" (fish poisoning) cases (called "la gratte" in New Caledonia). Fish and calm places, everywhere! Fine climate, not really hot, good breezes.. nearly every day all the year! KANAK tribes are interesting to visit. The natural "swimming pool" in PINE island is UNIQUE.

Alain and Madeleine de Poerck-de Bilderling, s/v Tico Tico

Noonsite Regional Editors