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How are the Loyalty Islands geographically different from Grande Terre?

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The Loyalty Islands differ significantly from Grande Terre (the main island of New Caledonia) in their geological composition and relief.12

Geological Structure: While Grande Terre is characterized by rugged mountain ranges composed primarily of metamorphic rock, such as schist and serpentine, the Loyalty Islands are formed from raised coral plateaus.1
Elevation: Grande Terre features substantial peaks, including Mount Panié, which reaches an elevation of 5,341 feet (1,628 metres). In contrast, the Loyalty Islands are low-lying, with elevations generally not exceeding 430 to 453 feet (130 to 138 metres).13
Hydrology: Grande Terre possesses a complex drainage system with numerous streams and rivers, such as the Diahot River, descending from its central mountain chain. The Loyalty Islands lack surface water, a condition attributed to the porous nature of their calcareous rock formations.1