Hilton Worldwide announced Hilton Lifou Wadra Bay Resort, its second hotel in New Caledonia, with the signing of a franchise agreement with Société de Développement des îles Loyautés (SODIL). The 50-room resort is due to open in 2019 and will be managed by GLP Hotels New Caledonia.

Lifou Island is one of the three Loyalty Islands located off the east coast of the mainland of New Caledonia. This will be the first hotel of this standard on the island which is largely undiscovered and features a combination of Melanesian culture, unique nature, and magnificent beaches. Lifou Island is accessible by air or by boat leaving from Noumea, the capital city of New Caledonia.

Robert Scullin, vice president, Development, Australasia, Hilton Worldwide, said, "Today we take the first step toward adding a world-class resort to the island of Lifou and Hilton is thrilled to have this opportunity; what a terrific place to continue our New Caledonia story. This beautiful country surrounded by the Pacific Ocean has a deep, rich cultural heritage. Global travellers trust the Hilton brand and together with our partners we look forward to making this destination more accessible to global travellers."

William Ihage, general manager of SODIL, said, "This important project has been in the works for many years and together with GLP Hotels and Hilton Worldwide we are excited to bring this unique piece of paradise in the South Pacific to both new and existing Hilton Worldwide guests."

Jean Rambaud, general manager of GLP Hotels New Caledonia added, "We look forward to managing this new hotel and bringing an international level of service to Lifou. We see this as an exciting sister property for the extremely successful Hilton Noumea La Promenade Residence."

The resort will include 50 villas all located on or close to the beachfront and will boast an inland lagoon with local fish, rays and turtles following an agreement with the Noumea Aquarium. Two restaurants, a health club, spa, outdoor pool and event spaces complete the resort facilities.

Today's announcement is a testament to both the Hilton brand's strength in the Australasia region borne out of having had a presence here for over 40 years, to deliver exceptional experiences for both guests and owners," said Sean Wooden, vice president Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Hilton Worldwide. "We are privileged to be partnering with SODIL and again with GLP Hotels to launch Hilton Lifou Wadra Bay Resort as a strong addition to our current portfolio of 21 operating hotels in Australasia and we look forward to welcoming travellers to this beautiful island with our world-renowned Hilton hospitality."