As every year, humpback whales have taken up residence near the coast of Drehu. Their arrival marks the beginning of the yam season in Kanak culture. They are also an integral part of the history of Lifou. Report from Wadra Bay, in the company of the master of the place Ernest Madoué.
Magical, captivating… Their ballet in the lagoon always arouses so much emotion. Even for the tourist guide Ernest Madoué, who has been with them in the south of the island since his childhood.As kids, we used to welcome them at this time of year. It’s a pleasure to come here and take care of the whales. Because this area is not protected. And since there is a lot of tourist activity, we have to try to preserve them.”
For fifty years, there has been a great devastation of whales. The result, unfortunately, is that we now have fewer groups arriving here.
Ernest Madoué, tourist guide in Lifou
There is a long history between Lifou and whales. It was marked in particular by the whalers, considered to be the first settlers in New Caledonia.
“They arrived from 1835. There were Americans, English, Frenchlists Ernest Madoue. In Lifou, their activity was more concentrated in the north of the island. Alcohol served as a sort of “pass” to come here.”
But this commercial activity, now banned in New Caledonia, has left its mark.For fifty years, there has been a great devastation of whales. The result, unfortunately, is that we now have fewer groups arriving here.”
Passing through Caledonia to reproduce and fast, the majestic cetaceans will resume their journey to the Antarctic in October to feed for six months.
