Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. New Caledonia law
Cannabis laws in Noumea follow New Caledonia’s national law. Legal status and penalties are set at the country/state level, not by the city.
Cannabis is illegal for recreational and medical use. Possession, use, and distribution can result in fines or imprisonment. There is no decriminalization or tolerance policy.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: Illegal
- Possession: Illegal
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: Same penalties apply
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Law Enforcement
Police sometimes met ferries from Île des Pins and the Loyalty Islands. The reported searches fell disproportionately on Kanak passengers. Fewer officers were seen outside downtown.
Where to Buy Marijuana
Kava bars on the peninsula toward Kuendu Beach and downtown clubs were the common leads. Most conversations were in French. People sometimes shared a smoke in a village when they were unwilling to sell, and staff at seaside resorts near the casino sometimes knew somebody. Kava itself was part of the night out.
Marijuana Prices
- About 5,000 CFP francs, then quoted as US$60, for an envelope that varied but was usually around a quarter-ounce. The outer islands were cheaper.
- Around US$50 for 3 g through a downtown club contact.
- A shared smoke or a couple of buds could come free from a village host.
Types of Marijuana
Local outdoor flower, sometimes sticky and strong. It did the job. Hash, hydro and named Super Skunk didn’t turn up.
More Information
Nightclub drinks could cost more than expected. A single Jim Beam and Coke was quoted at US$20.