In the New Caledonia largest city Nouméa, which has been at the centre of riots in recent days, residents are queuing for supplies in a supermarket where basic products are starting to run out after six days of crisis.
21st May 2024 09:23 AM 
A military transport aircraft landed in riot-hit New Caledonia to evacuate trapped tourists Tuesday, the first rescue flight since looting, arson and deadly gunfire enveloped the French Pacific territory eight days ago.
Australia and New Zealand are sending an initial batch of planes to New Caledonia's domestic Noumea Magenta airport, where AFP correspondents saw the first Australian C-130 Hercules aircraft land and several coaches waiting.
Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, said on social media, announcing two initial flights, that Passengers are being prioritised based on need.
The Pacific territory of 270,000 people has been in turmoil since May 13, when violence erupted over French plans to impose new voting rules that would give tens of thousands of non-indigenous residents voting rights.
The unrest has left six people dead, including two police, and hundreds injured, as the French authorities in New Caledonia said police had so far arrested nearly 270 "rioters".
