Melanesian Countries List
Melanesia is a subregion of Oceania located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, characterized by its numerous islands, rich cultural diversity, and lush tropical landscapes. The countries in Melanesia include Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia (a special collectivity of France).
Papua New Guinea
Country Overview:
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is the largest country in Melanesia, covering an area of approximately 462,840 square kilometers. It shares a border with Indonesia to the west and is located just north of Australia. Papua New Guinea is famous for its diverse indigenous cultures, stunning natural scenery, including rugged mountains, dense rainforests, and pristine coral reefs.
Country Facts:
- Year of Independence: September 16, 1975 (from Australia)
- Population: Approximately 9 million
- Capital City: Port Moresby
- Language: English, Tok Pisin, Hiri Motu
- Currency: Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK)
- Time Zone: AEST (UTC+10)
- Country Area Code: +675
- Top-Level Domain: .pg
- ISO Country Codes: PG, PNG
Fiji
Country Overview:
Fiji is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, covering an area of approximately 18,274 square kilometers. It consists of over 300 islands, with Viti Levu and Vanua Levu being the largest. Fiji is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and warm hospitality. It is also known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional Fijian ceremonies and dances.
Country Facts:
- Year of Independence: October 10, 1970 (from the United Kingdom)
- Population: Approximately 890,000
- Capital City: Suva
- Language: English, Fijian, Hindi
- Currency: Fijian Dollar (FJD)
- Time Zone: FJT (UTC+12)
- Country Area Code: +679
- Top-Level Domain: .fj
- ISO Country Codes: FJ, FJI
Solomon Islands
Country Overview:
The Solomon Islands is an archipelago nation located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, covering an area of approximately 28,896 square kilometers. It consists of over 900 islands, with Guadalcanal being the largest. The Solomon Islands are famous for their rich biodiversity, including diverse marine life and lush rainforests. They are also known for their unique Melanesian culture and traditional practices.
Country Facts:
- Year of Independence: July 7, 1978 (from the United Kingdom)
- Population: Approximately 700,000
- Capital City: Honiara
- Language: English, Solomon Islands Pijin
- Currency: Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD)
- Time Zone: SBT (UTC+11)
- Country Area Code: +677
- Top-Level Domain: .sb
- ISO Country Codes: SB, SLB
Vanuatu
Country Overview:
Vanuatu is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, covering an area of approximately 12,189 square kilometers. It consists of over 80 islands, known for their volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Vanuatu is famous for its unique blend of Melanesian, French, and British influences, as well as its diverse cultural traditions.
Country Facts:
- Year of Independence: July 30, 1980 (from joint French and British rule)
- Population: Approximately 300,000
- Capital City: Port Vila
- Language: Bislama, English, French
- Currency: Vanuatu Vatu (VUV)
- Time Zone: VUT (UTC+11)
- Country Area Code: +678
- Top-Level Domain: .vu
- ISO Country Codes: VU, VUT
New Caledonia
Country Overview:
New Caledonia is a special collectivity of France located in the southwest Pacific Ocean, covering an area of approximately 18,575 square kilometers. It consists of the main island of Grande Terre and several smaller islands. New Caledonia is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including lush rainforests, turquoise lagoons, and unique flora and fauna.
Country Facts:
- Year of Independence: N/A (Special Collectivity of France)
- Population: Approximately 285,000
- Capital City: Nouméa
- Language: French
- Currency: CFP Franc (XPF)
- Time Zone: NCST (UTC+11)
- Country Area Code: +687
- Top-Level Domain: .nc
- ISO Country Codes: NC, NCL