The unfolding crisis in New Caledonia has left more than 3,000 people stranded, including tourists trapped by rioting, looting, and separatist roadblocks. The situation has led to a wave of relief among those awaiting evacuation as the first military rescue planes arrived on Tuesday.
Australian tourist Maxwell Winchester and his wife Tiffany, barricaded in a hill resort outside Noumea, expressed joy at the prospect of rescue after a tense week filled with gunfire and dwindling supplies. “Every night, we had to sleep with one eye open,” Winchester said, describing their fear of looting amid the unrest.
The arrival of military evacuation planes from Australia and New Zealand brings hope to stranded tourists, although uncertainties remain about who will be prioritized for evacuation. While Australia has estimated at least 300 nationals needing rescue, the total number of tourists and locals stranded outside the islands is unclear.
The sight of Royal Australian Air Force and New Zealand Defence Force planes landing at Magenta airport brought overwhelming relief to many, signaling the start of rescue operations. Foreign Minister Winston Peters mentioned plans for subsequent flights in cooperation with France and Australia.
Despite the relief, some tourists like Meg Soutar and Caroline Tully, stuck on the remote west coast, were unable to reach the airport due to unsafe routes. They remain isolated, relying on limited information and assistance while anxiously awaiting their turn for evacuation.
Sources By Agencies
