General

New Zealand is working closely with our partners under FRANZ - the joint France, Australia and New Zealand disaster relief arrangement - on how to best respond to the situation in Fiji.

A RNZAF C 130 Hercules has arrived in Fiji. The aircraft carried relief supplies - including tarps, water containers and purification tablets.

The aircraft is now travelling to Labasa to deliver supplies, it will then complete 2 - 3 hours of aerial reconnaissance around the affected areas today

The Minister of Foreign Affairs has announced that New Zealand will contribute an initial $1 million dollars to assist with relief efforts in Fiji.

Tropical Cyclone Tomas

The tropical cyclone warning for Fiji has now been removed; a strong wind warning remains in effect for Southern Lau but is now cancelled for the rest of the Fiji Group.

Tomas is moving south at 20km/hr and continues to affect the southern islands of Fiji

Over 18,000 people have been evacuated to centres across Fiji, mainly in Northern areas. One person had been confirmed killed.

Fiji authorities have declared a state of disaster and requested international assistance.

Due to the effects of the storm, and problems with communications there are no official damage assessments yet from affected areas.

Tropical Cyclone Ului

The main areas affected by Ului are Bellona and Rennell Islands (total popn 2500).

There are no reports of casualties. There are reports of damage to buildings and houses.

New Zealand stands ready to assist if required.

New Zealanders in the affected area

There are around 480 New Zealanders registered with the Ministry as being in Fiji.

We encourage New Zealanders in Fiji to contact family and friends to confirm their wellbeing.

The New Zealand High Commission in Suva is in the process of ringing around resorts and local authorities in the affected areas to check on New Zealand visitors though communications are a problem in some areas.

While Nadi and Nausori airports are now operational travellers with immediate plans to travel to Fiji are being advised to check with their travel agent or accommodation provider for information on domestic flights and possible resort damage.

New Zealanders currently in Fiji are advised to follow any instructions issued by local authorities, monitor local media reports and register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade at www.safetravel.govt.nz