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Australia and New Zealand will provide an initial $1 million contribution to help Fiji’s relief and recovery efforts from the destruction caused by Cyclone Tomas.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully and his Australian counterpart Stephen Smith said they are working closely with FRANZ – the joint France, Australia and New Zealand disaster relief agreement in assisting Fiji.
The two foreign ministers said the assistance could include a contribution to the Fiji Red Cross Society to enable local purchase of essential supplies.
A New Zealand airforce Hercules arrived in Nausori this morning carrying tarpaulins, water containers and water purification tablets for those in the cyclone affected areas.
An Australian Defence Force C130 is scheduled to arrive this afternoon carrying similar supplies.
“Australia will also provide funding to Fiji’s National Disaster Management Office (DISMAC) to charter transport such as helicopters and boats to deliver much needed relief supplies to remote areas,” Smith said.
McCully similarly said they are awaiting clearer assessments of damage after which they will formulate a broader response.
The two relief planes are expected to leave for the northern division where the supplies will be handed to the Commissioner Northern.
“Once the cargo has been off-loaded, the Hercules will undertake the aerial inspection of affected areas like Cikobia, Naqalelevu, Tavueni and eastern Vanua Levu,” McCully added.
