New Caledonia: French Destination Unknown

Like a storm at sea, changes were brewing in New Caledonia upon the arrival of Captain Cook in 1774. Soon after, the French inhabited the islands, penal camps were established, and nickel mining began to carve the landscape.

New Caledonia is known as the "Paris of the Pacific", hosting chic French boutiques and fine French cuisine.

A struggle for independence from France has been an ongoing theme for years, climaxing in 1980 and a resolve to take place in 2014.

Explore with Aurora photographer Peter Essick, the exotic Melanesian islands of New Caledonia that are inhabited by ornate insects, a vast array of plants and animals, and the Kanaks--the island natives.

Explore visually by choosing thumbnail images (above) or linearly from start to finish by Topic (left).

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