Wellington, Jan 16 NZPA - Oxfam New Zealand says it's working to provide fresh drinking water to earthquake survivors in Port-au-Prince today as the destruction continues to severely hamper aid efforts.

Oxfam said it hoped to have two large water bladders operating in the city later today.

Oxfam was also sending up to 10 tonnes of water, sanitation, health and shelter equipment on a specially-stripped British Airways flight to Santa Domingo from England overnight NZT

Seventeen Oxfam International humanitarian experts flew into the Dominican Republic and will arrive in Haiti today.

Oxfam staff are also providing shovels and picks for local civil workers to clear rubble to search for trapped victims in the capital, Port-au-Prince.

"This is a nightmare for survivors and aid workers alike, but we are beginning to get aid through despite the challenges," said Oxfam executive director Barry Coates.

Oxfam affiliates around the world are appealing for funds. To donate to Oxfam New Zealand's Haiti earthquake response please call 0800 400 666 (24 hours), to make an automatic $20 donation call 0900 600 20 .

NZPA