An image from Christmas Island detention centre released by Australian Immigration Minister Peter Dutton's office.

Seven New Zealanders have been flown off Christmas Island, as images emerge of the damage caused by rioting at the detention centre.

The ABC reported it had witnessed detainees being transported to the Christmas Island airport.

Australia's Immigration Minister Peter Dutton subsequently confirmed their removal to a correctional facility in Western Australia.

DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION AND BORDER PROTECTION An image from Christmas Island detention centre released by Australian Immigration Minister Peter Dutton's office.

"They are among a group of extreme-risk individuals who are alleged to have been involved in the disturbance at the centre," he told the ABC.

The men, who were handcuffed, said they were from New Zealand and claimed to be on their way to a prison in Perth.

Rioting at the detention centre was brought under control on Wednesday.

DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION AND BORDER PROTECTION An image from Christmas Island detention centre released by Australian Immigration Minister Peter Dutton's office.

Images from from the centre were released by Australian Immigration Minister Peter Dutton's office on Wednesday.

The pictures show widespread damage.

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DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION AND BORDER PROTECTION Damage to the Christmas Island detention centre following riots.

A detainee at the centre told SBS World News on Tuesday that New Zealanders stuck on the island were mostly behind the riot.

"People are destroying everything that can be destroyed," the detainee told SBS.

Rioters had broken into offices and damaged the canteen and kitchen facilities.

DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION AND BORDER PROTECTION Footage depicting some of the damage to the Christmas Island detention centre following the riots.

"The place is a disaster zone," he said.

In a statement, the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection said detainees were in the process of being returned to repaired accommodation compounds at the centre.

There had been major damage to areas of centre, including common areas.

DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION AND BORDER PROTECTION Damage to the Christmas Island detention centre following riots.

"Repairs are underway on accommodation compounds in the centre as a priority, with detainees accommodated overnight in temporary but secure parts of the centre," the statement said.

Reports of detainees sleeping in 'cages' were false, the department said.

"Food and medical services are being provided and detainees who require medication are continuing to receive care and treatment as they normally would."

Australian Federal Police officers on the island had started an investigation.