The sculptures
Many artists tell their culture and beliefs through sculptures in wood, fern or soapstone. All official buildings, hotels and cultural centers are decorated with them. You can also find miniature sculptures on the East Coast. They are the ideal souvenir to bring back in your suitcase, but also a pleasure for the eyes. Don't hesitate to stop by the tourist office in La Foa to see the large sculpted totems in the annexed park.
Vanilla
Especially the one in Lifou! Vanilla was introduced to the island by the wife of an English pastor, who passed on the secrets to the inhabitants. Since then, production has taken on a singular importance, so much so that today Lifou has about 370 small planters united within the Ahmelewedre Bio association. The association harvests two tons of organically grown vanilla per year. At the Maison de la vanille in Lifou, they explain to us the different techniques of production, from cultivation to the vanilla bean being sold.
From the craft
New Caledonia has many small artists and craftsmen who offer very nice souvenirs to bring back.
For example, the women's workshop in Noumea groups together crafts (mats, hats, baskets, dresses, jewelry...). Many villages are represented, from Grande Terre and the Loyalty Islands. The women's workshop operates on the principle of fair trade and every month, the women artists come to deposit their creations.
Essential oils
Essential oils are part of the production of the small local industry. Niaouli is harvested in the foothills of the mountain range from Hienghène to Ponérihouen on the east coast, as well as in the Boulouparis and Païta region on the west coast. The producers collect the niaouli, which is then distilled in one of the twelve small establishments located on the West and East coasts. The production of niaouli oil supports about two hundred families. This essential oil (gomenol) is used in the composition of certain medicines. Very pure natural balsamic essence, it needs to be kept away from light, in a cool place, with the cap of the bottle well closed. It can be used as a chest and back rub, as a gargle (2 to 3 drops in a glass of water), as an inhalation (3 drops in a bowl of hot water) or by breathing it in, and even by swallowing it (put 3 drops in a spoonful of honey). Gomenol also relieves insect bites and soothes rheumatic pains.
If you pass by Boulouparis, don't miss to go to the distillery! The store sells its local production in the form of liqueurs, mignonettes, syrups, essential oils, balm, soap and tonic water.
