Hienghene

Thanks for your tips on hostel. Would also like to explore NE and hienghene area for about 3-5 nights.Thought we might just try local bus from Noumea .Should we break the journey? Any ideas on how to get around the area to see some of the local sites eg the Grottes. the cliffs the lookout up to Ouaieme ferry and Cascade Tao and maybe Tiendanite area Would prefer not to hire a car but will if that was only option bit nervous about the roads.And any ideas on places to stay simple quiet a clean bed and mozzie proof.

The local bus is a good option.
Whether to break the journey or not depends on how much time you have.
Once in Hienghene, most local sights are close enough to tiown that you could even see them by walking.
To the Tao Waterfall, you can take a local bus.
Not quite sure what you mean by "simple", but there are varied options in that area ranging from very cheap tribal village homestays and campsites all the way to Club Med.