Australian immigration minister Peter Dutton denies the New Zealand government is being kept in the dark about people being held on Christmas Island.
Photo: AAP
Australia is holding 200 New Zealanders pending deportation because of new visa restrictions in Australia for those with criminal convictions.
The Iwi n Aus group said about 100 were on Christmas Island and it had been contacted by their families, desperate for information and help.
Speaking after a visit to the centre, Mr Dutton said anybody could return to New Zealand tomorrow if they want, but those appealing against visa cancellation would be held for a prolonged period.