Even though New Caledonia is located 16,100 km (10,000 mi) from Metropolitan France – it is formally part of the French Republic. This has previously prevented New Caledonians from podium positions at Oceania. That has now changed! 

The IOF Council has approved the recognition of New Caledonia as a Recognised Territorial Body, effective immediately, as recorded under Item 8.1 of the minutes from IOF Council Meeting 238. This decision formally places New Caledonia within the Oceania region and has direct implications for eligibility and participation in future Oceania Orienteering Championships. 
As minuted:   
8.1. New Caledonia as a Recognised Territorial Body – “…Council granted French New Caledonia the status of Recognised Territorial Body, and decided to make athletes from French New Caledonia eligible for participation in Oceania Championships with immediate effect.”