Riot police in New Caledonia have been deployed to Mare after clashes over the appointment of a new Protestant pastor.
The French High Commission has appealed for calm as investigations have begun into the violence, which has prompted scores of people to flee.
Several houses, including a guest house, were reportedly set on fire and a car was burnt.
Photo: AFP
The High Commission says one person was injured.
The new pastor, who hails from the area, reportedly appointed himself to the role in the parish without getting the official approval of the Protestant Church.
The move split the community, with some people now reportedly fearing for their safety.