New Caledonia launches MICE Incentive Scheme

New Caledonia has launched a new incentive scheme for the conference and events sector, offering a choice of bonus extras that add a little spice to a tropical island function.

Just 2 hours from Brisbane or 2½ hours from Sydney, New Caledonia is the perfect short-haul events destination, offering a fascinating mix of French and Pacific cultures on the palm-fringed shores of one of the world’s largest lagoons.

The new MICE Incentive Scheme means event organisers can choose from a range of free extras to incorporate into their conference or incentive, based on their delegate numbers and room nights.

Delegates can enjoy the pounding rythmns of traditional Melanesian dancers, explore the sights aboard the Nouméa Explorer, be welcomed at the airport with floral garlands or traditional music, or have their event recorded with professional photography.

Event organisers can choose a range of quality promotional items and gifts such as branded clothing, petanque sets or wine and cheese sets, or they can make use of practical bonuses like internet access and mobile phone SIM cards.

New Caledonia Tourism Australian Manager Diane Moynihan said the new scheme marked the first anniversary of a concerted push into the conference and events sector.

“Last year we increased government funding and appointed a Sydney-based Business Development Manager for the MICE sector, resulting in increased support for event organisers and excellent feedback from participants,” Ms Moynihan said.

“Twelve months later, we’ve put New Caledonia on track to double event bookings for 2007 and have assisted a wide range of visits including groups from Coca-Cola Amatil, Temperzone Australia, Isuzu Australia Ltd and Colliers International, with great results.”

Ms Moynihan said event planners were taking advantage of New Caledonia’s tropical landscape and western-standard infrastructure, just a short flight from Australia.

“We’ve had elaborate celebrations on sandy islets, gourmet cooking classes conducted by French chefs, sailing regattas on the lagoon and tasting sessions at the French champagne and cheese houses,” Ms Moynihan said. “New Caledonia’s mix of island life and European flavour gives a lot of scope for creative events, without having to suffer jetlag.”

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