A small number of New Zealanders could have been involved in the Christmas Island detention centre riot, Prime Minister John Key says.
There are about 40 Kiwis there, awaiting deportation because of their criminal records, along with several hundred asylum seekers from other countries.
The two-hour riot started early on Monday morning following the discovery of the body of an Iranian asylum seeker who escaped on Friday.
Mr Key says his office has been given an update on the situation.
"We are aware of what has taken place," he told reporters.
"My understanding is that there could be a small number of New Zealanders involved, but we haven't been advised of any injuries to New Zealanders."
Mr Key says if any New Zealanders were involved, they could have damaged their chances of successfully appealing against deportation.
"Like a riot at any corrections facility, there may well be consequences," he said.
"The risk is that they will damage their own appeals if they undertake other criminal activity."
Mr Key says they're all free to return to New Zealand if they want to, and continue with their appeals from there.
He doesn't intend calling Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull or sending officials to Christmas Island to find out what has happened.
"It's an Australian corrections facility, there is a process to be followed," he said.
"If there was a riot at Paremoremo, I don't think Australia would send officials here."
The rioting detainees are reported to have kicked down walls, lit fires and destroyed a canteen and offices.
Australian officials are reported to have said the situation has calmed down and they're working with centre's operator, Serco, to resolve it.
