Australia and New Zealand have confirmed clearance to dispatch aircraft to New Caledonia for the evacuation of stranded travelers following disruptions that forced the closure of the international airport.
Australia is scheduling the deployment of two planes on Tuesday to repatriate some of its citizens, approximately 300 of whom have sought assistance in the French Pacific territory.
New Zealand’s government in Wellington announced that the initial flight, part of a series of planned evacuations, will carry around 50 individuals back home.
The unrest erupted last week after Parisian lawmakers passed reforms permitting more French residents to participate in local elections, a decision indigenous leaders argue will diminish the political influence of native peoples.
In the resulting riots, four civilians, including at least three indigenous Kanak residents, lost their lives alongside two police officers. The violence has left dozens injured, with over 200 individuals arrested.
Both Australia and New Zealand have pledged to prioritize the evacuation of those facing urgent needs, with consular officials overseeing passenger arrangements.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that assistance would also extend to tourists from “other countries.”
Reports from stranded holidaymakers, enduring shortages of food amid fires and looting, underscore the challenges faced.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters emphasized ongoing collaboration with French authorities and partners, notably Australia, to ensure the safety of citizens in New Caledonia.
Approximately 290 New Zealanders are estimated to be present in the territory.
Australian tourist Maxwell Winchester expressed relief at the prospect of returning home with his wife after being confined to a resort near Nouméa for over a week. He acknowledged the likelihood of not being accommodated on the initial flights due to prioritization based on need but welcomed the assurance of a forthcoming departure.
The French High Commission in New Caledonia says French gendarmes trying to take back control of the 60km (37 miles) road between Nouméa and La Tontouta International have “neutralized” 76 roadblocks and are now clearing debris such as burnt-out vehicles.
Travel advice by the Australian government has warned people not to try and get to the airport themselves saying the route “is not yet considered safe”.
The airport remains closed for commercial flights, and a decision on when to reopen it will be reassessed on Thursday, the local government said.
It has estimated that about 3,200 people are waiting to leave or enter New Caledonia.
France has flown in 1,050 extra police to boost security in the territory, with a further 600 reinforcements to arrive “in the coming hours”, France’s High Commission in New Caledonia said on Tuesday.
The military is being deployed to protect public buildings, it added.
Earlier this week, French President Emmanuel Macron warned that the military would need to remain deployed in New Caledonia “for some time”.
