A violent confrontation between tour operators in the Vanuatu capital, Port Vila, has resulted in police being called to the wharf to restore order.
A cruise ship departs Port Vila harbour in Vanuatu. Photo: RNZI / Jamie Tahana
The incident saw angry taxi and bus drivers throw stones at a bus belonging to Adventures in Paradise, which was carrying passengers.
They had seen a company representative enter a cruise ship and suspected he had sold tours onboard.
However, the passengers on the buses had pre-booked their tours in Australia.
The Deputy Prime Minister Joe Natuman witnessed what happened and said immediate action would follow to stop such behaviour at the main wharf.
Tourism authorities and the government met for a day to discuss how best to approach the issues surrounding local and pre-booked tours as well as the violence.
An Adventures in Paradise spokesman said he was confident cruise ships could service Port Vila but it would need strong leadership and co-operation by all stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of all people involved.
A boat crosses Port Vila habour at sunset. Photo: RNZI / Jamie Tahana