Currency in New Caledonia | Sud Tourism New Caledonia

Local currency: the CFP franc (XPF)

New Caledonia requires an understanding of the local currency and currency conversion methods. The CFP franc (XPF) is the official currency. Also known as CFP for Communauté Française du Pacifique, this currency is also used by other Pacific territories such as French Polynesia and Wallis and Futuna. The use of this common currency facilitates economic exchanges in the region. The coins in circulation in New Caledonia include several denominations. Since 2021, the 1-, 2- and 5-franc coins have disappeared leaving only the 10-, 20-, 50- and 100-franc coins, together with the 200-franc coin that has been introduced. Banknotes are available in denominations of 500, 1,000, 5,000 and 10,000 XPF.

Currency conversion: euro and other currencies

For travellers from the euro zone, there is a fixed conversion rate between the euro (EUR) and the XPF, with 1 EUR equivalent to approximately 119.332 XPF. Although the rate is generally stable, slight fluctuations may occur depending on movements in the international financial market. However, these variations rarely have a significant impact on trade. If you come from outside the euro zone, you should check the current exchange rates to assess the value of XPF against your national currency. These rates are subject to more frequent variations and can influence your purchasing power in New Caledonia. Consult reliable financial sources or banks for the latest exchange rates. Currency conversion apps and financial websites also offer up-to-date information.

Our advice

You can exchange currencies at banks, exchange offices, or airports.

Our tip

Always carry different denominations of CFP francs to facilitate payments, especially in areas where electronic payment options are limited.

Banking services in New Caledonia

In New Caledonia, well-known banking establishments such as Société Générale Calédonienne de Banque and Banque Nationale de Paris (BNP) are present in the territory. Other banks such as the Banque de Nouvelle-Calédonie, the Banque Calédonienne d’Investissements and the bank of the Office des Postes et Télécommunications offer currency conversion services, financial advice, and other necessary banking services.

Conversion examples

Conversion from euros (EUR) to CFP francs (XPF):

Let’s assume that the fixed conversion rate is 1 EUR = 119.332 XPF, which is the usual rate due to the XPF’s being pegged to the euro.

You have spent 3,000 XPF on a tourist activity in New Caledonia.
To convert this sum into euros, divide 3,000 XPF by the conversion rate (119.332).
✅ The conversion would therefore be: 3,000 XPF ÷ 119.332 = approximately 25.14 EUR.

Conversion from Australian dollars (AUD) to CFP francs (XPF):

Let’s assume that the exchange rate is 1 AUD ≈ 75 XPF (this rate may vary).

✅ Example 1: 1 AUD ≈ 75 XPF
For 20 AUD, this is equivalent to 20 × 75 = 1,500 XPF.

✅ Example 2: 50 AUD ≈ 3,750 XPF
For 50 AUD, you’d get around 3,750 XPF.

Conversion from New Zealand dollars (NZD) to CFP francs (XPF):

Let’s imagine that the exchange rate is 1 NZD ≈ 70 XPF (this rate is subject to change).

✅ Example 1: 1 NZD ≈ 70 XPF
For 20 NZD, this would be equivalent to 20 × 70 = 1,400 XPF.

✅ Example 2: 50 NZD ≈ 3,500 XPF
For 50 NZD, this would correspond to around 3,500 XPF.