Mare Airport

Mare Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the pristine nature of the Loyalty Islands. As the aircraft approaches for landing, passengers are greeted by a breathtaking panorama of coral reefs and the endless turquoise of the Pacific Ocean, turning the final minutes of the flight into an unforgettable excursion. There is no hustle and bustle of giant aviation hubs here; instead, guests are welcomed by an intimate atmosphere where time flows at a relaxed island rhythm, and the journey begins with a sense of complete tranquility.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of this air harbour is its compactness and simplicity. Thanks to the low passenger traffic, all formalities—from check-in to baggage claim—take mere minutes, allowing tourists to set off and explore the island almost immediately. The terminal building is designed to maximise natural lighting and ventilation, creating a pleasant microclimate even on hot days.

Another important feature is its picturesque location. The airport is located in the La Roche area, and the road from it to the main hotels and villages passes through stunning landscapes. Furthermore, the airport staff is known for their friendliness and willingness to help, which immediately immerses arrivals in the atmosphere of Melanesian hospitality.

Below is the essential contact information for Mare Airport (MEE). Save it so that it is at hand during your journey.

• Official Website: Flight schedules and general information can be found on the official website of the New Caledonia airports management company.
• Information Desk Phone: +687 45 42 16
• Address: Route de l'Aérodrome, 98828 Maré, New Caledonia
• Email: It is recommended to use the telephone or the contact form on the official website for communication, as a dedicated email for inquiries is not published.
• Social Media: Current news and updates can be tracked on the Aéroports de Nouvelle-Calédonie page on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative first. If you have left personal items in the terminal building, contact the airport information desk at the phone number listed above.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For advice and assistance with general enquiries, please use the airport information desk phone number.

There are several ways to get to Mare Airport (IATA code: MEE), which serves the island of the same name within New Caledonia. Given the specific nature of the island, it is recommended to plan your transfer in advance, especially during the high tourist season. The airport is located in the northern part of Maré, near the settlement of La Roche.

Taxi and Private Transfer. This is the most reliable and comfortable, but also the most expensive way to move around the island. Many hotels and guesthouses (gîtes) offer transfer arrangements for their guests. It is strongly recommended to book this in advance by providing your flight details and be sure to confirm the cost of the trip. Private taxis also operate on the island, but their numbers are limited, and finding an available car upon arrival without a prior reservation can be problematic. The trip from the main settlement of Tadine to the airport will take approximately 25-35 minutes.

Car Rental. If you plan to actively explore the island, renting a car is an excellent choice. In terms of cost, this may be more economical than multiple taxi rides, especially if you are not travelling alone or are staying for several days. Several local rental agencies offer their services. It is best to book a car in advance online or by phone to guarantee its availability upon arrival. Pick-up points are often located directly at the airport. This option provides maximum freedom of movement along the picturesque roads of Maré.

Public Transport. Maré has practically no public transport system in the conventional sense (regular buses on a schedule). This is the most budget-friendly, but also the least reliable way to travel. Sometimes you can use the services of local shared taxis (taxi-bus) that run between the main villages, but their routes and schedules can be unpredictable. Relying on them to get to the airport on time is not recommended.

Parking at the Airport. There is a small parking area next to the Mare Airport terminal. It is suitable for both short-term and long-term parking if, for example, you are leaving a rental car before departure. Typically, parking is free of charge but unguarded.

Mare Airport (MEE) is a small regional airport serving the island within New Caledonia. Its structure is extremely simple and focused on the convenience of passengers travelling on domestic airlines. You will not find huge complexes here, which makes the stay at the airport short and straightforward.

The airport operates one small passenger terminal, which serves both arriving and departing flights. The terminal building is compact, and all key zones are within walking distance of each other. The airport layout is intuitive: upon entering the main building, you will immediately see the check-in counters, behind which is a small waiting area for departing passengers. The arrival zone is a separate part of the hall where passengers enter directly from the airfield and where baggage claim takes place.

Since there is only one terminal, there are no transfers between terminals. The check-in and security screening process usually goes very quickly due to the low passenger traffic. Long queues are a rarity here. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1 hour before departure; this time will be more than sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing.

Navigation at Mare Airport will not cause any difficulties even for an inexperienced traveller. Everything necessary—from check-in counters to boarding gates—is located within a single hall. Signage is minimal, but there is no particular need for it, as it is practically impossible to get lost here. This simplicity is a feature of the airport, allowing tourists to quickly begin or end their journey across the picturesque island.

The history of Mare Airport (MEE) is not a chronicle of massive construction projects and world records, but rather a story of a vital connection. Since its inception, it has become the main aerial artery connecting the picturesque island of Maré, one of the Loyalty Islands, with the rest of New Caledonia. Its history is inextricably linked with the development of local tourism and the need of the island's residents for reliable communication with the "mainland".

Although the exact founding date of the small airfield is not a widely known fact, its key role has always been obvious. Over the decades, the airport infrastructure has gradually improved to meet modern safety requirements and growing passenger traffic. One of the significant stages of development was the modernisation carried out in recent years, which included updating the passenger terminal and improving the runway. These works were aimed at increasing traveller comfort and flight service efficiency.

The main achievement and historical mission of Mare Airport is its flawless operation as an "air bridge". For local residents, it is an opportunity to quickly reach the capital, Nouméa, to access specialised services, and for tourists, it is the starting point for a journey through one of the most authentic and beautiful islands of Melanesia. The airport has played a key role in making the natural treasures of Maré, such as its natural pools and breathtaking cliffs, accessible to travellers.

Interesting fact: despite its modest and simple infrastructure, Mare Airport is a gateway to a world of incredible natural beauty. There are no huge duty-free shops or noisy waiting halls here, which only emphasises the secluded and peaceful atmosphere of the island. The flight to Maré itself is already part of the adventure, as the view from the window offers breathtaking vistas of coral reefs and turquoise lagoons, preparing you for an encounter with this corner of paradise.

Mare Airport (MEE) is a small regional airport serving domestic flights. The level of services provided corresponds to its size and is focused on meeting the basic needs of passengers before departure.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops: The choice of dining establishments and shops in the airport terminal is limited. Typically, there is a small snack bar or cafe where you can buy drinks, snacks, and sandwiches. A small shop selling souvenirs and essential items may also be operating.

Waiting Lounges and Wi-Fi: A general waiting hall with a basic set of seats is available to passengers. There are no specialised VIP lounges or business lounges at Mare Airport. Wi-Fi connectivity may be limited or provided on a paid basis. The number of charging stations for electronic devices is also small, so it is better to carry a portable power bank with you.

Financial and Other Services: Full-service bank branches or currency exchange points are absent at the airport. It is recommended to carry a sufficient amount of local currency or exchange money in advance. The availability of an ATM should be confirmed additionally. The medical point provides basic first aid; in emergencies, please contact airport staff.

Services for Passengers with Special Needs: Changing tables may be available in the restrooms for passengers with children. There are no special play areas. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance during boarding and disembarking, which must be booked in advance through the airline. A basic accessible environment is ensured within the airport building.

Accommodation and Business: There are no hotels within the airport territory itself. The nearest accommodation options are located in different parts of the island, a few minutes' drive from the terminal. Conference room or business centre services are not provided at Mare Airport.

Mare Airport (MEE) is a small regional air terminal serving the island of the same name. Due to its compact size, the choice of catering establishments here is quite limited and designed primarily for passengers to have a quick snack before departure.

A small snack bar or cafe usually operates in the airport's single terminal. It is located in the general area, accessible to both departing and arriving passengers, before security control (landside). Here you can purchase basic snacks: sandwiches, fresh pastries (such as croissants), crisps, chocolate, as well as hot and cold drinks, including coffee, tea, and bottled water. This is an ideal option for a quick bite, but one should not count on a full hot lunch or dinner.

The establishment's opening hours are generally linked to the flight schedule—it opens shortly before the first departure and closes after the last plane leaves. Prices may be slightly higher than the island average, which is typical for airports. Specialised dining options, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or Halal dishes, are likely to be unavailable. Travellers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to bring food with them.

To ensure your journey through the airport on the island of Maré goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these tips. The airport mainly serves domestic flights, making it quite simple to navigate, but good preparation is never amiss.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Mare Airport is small, so there are no long queues characteristic of large international hubs. It is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be quite sufficient to check in for the flight, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without rushing.

Check-in and Security. Most flights from Maré are operated by Air Calédonie. Check the possibility of online check-in on the airline's website to save time. There is only one security checkpoint here, and the procedure is standard. Be prepared to present your boarding pass and ID, as well as remove electronic devices and liquids from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection on the Plane. Flights over the islands of New Caledonia are incredibly picturesque. To enjoy breathtaking views of turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and green landscapes, try to book a window seat. The best views usually open up during take-off and landing.

Hand Luggage. Standard security rules apply here as well. Liquids in containers up to 100 ml packed in a transparent bag are allowed in hand luggage. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check your airline's rules regarding the weight and dimensions of hand luggage.

Connecting Passengers. Most flights from Maré are headed to Magenta Airport (GEA) in Nouméa. If you have a subsequent flight planned, especially an international one from La Tontouta Airport (NOU), check with the airline whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transfer point.

Customs Control. Since flights from Maré are domestic, there is no customs control as such. However, strict biosecurity rules apply in New Caledonia to preserve the unique ecosystem. Do not transport certain types of plants, fruits, or animal products between islands without special permission.

Saving Time and Money. Book flight tickets in advance, especially during the high tourist season, to get the best price. To save time, travel light with only hand luggage. The choice of food and drinks at Mare Airport is limited, so you can bring a light snack and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after security screening.

In Case of Flight Delay. Small airports depend more heavily on weather conditions. Before leaving for the airport, check the status of your flight on the airline's website. If the flight is delayed, contact an airline representative for information. Given that amenities in the waiting lounge are minimal, it is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, or pre-downloaded films with you.