Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
New Zealand's national carrier has advised passengers who had travel plans to and from Nouméa to put them on hold until mid-December due to the ongoing uncertainty in New Caledonia.
In a statement on Monday, Air New Zealand said it has extended its suspension of Auckland-Nouméa service, citing security fears for passengers.
The national carrier ceased flights between Auckland and the French territory's capital, Nouméa on 15 June, amid violent civil unrest.
The airline said it had planned to resume flights on 28 September but has now prolonged the suspension until 14 December.
General Manager International, Jeremy O'Brien, said "pockets of unrest" continues in New Caledonia and "safety is priority".
"We understand that this will be disappointing for customers who have travel plans to and from Nouméa and we apologise for the disruption this causes.
"It's not a decision we have taken lightly, but as there are still pockets of civil unrest, safety is our number one priority."
The airline said customers booked directly with Air New Zealand to travel to Nouméa will have their flights automatically held in credit.
"Due to limited options and continued uncertainty in the region, customers will not be rebooked on flights to Nouméa via alternative services."
"Customers can also opt to receive a full refund on their booking, the airline said.
It is advising customers booked through a travel agent should contact them directly to discuss the options available to them.