The New Zealand government has announced a further $500,000 package of support to the Vanuatu government following volcanic eruptions on Ambae Island.

The move, according to Foreign Minister Winston Peters, brings the total New Zealand support response to $2.5 million since September last year.

“Two New Zealand Defence Force aircraft will fly from Auckland to Luganville carrying over 22 tonnes of relief supplies including mother and infant kits, family hygiene kits, jerry cans, shelter toolkits and tarpaulins,” Peters said.

The minister said the Vanuatu government is making plans to relocate affected communities to safe sites off Ambae Island. New Zealand supplies, consequently, will be used to assist communities impacted by the ongoing eruptions and support their longer-term recovery.

New Zealand has been working with FRANZ partners Australia and France to assist Vanuatu since the increased volcanic activity began in September 2017. It has also provided ongoing technical assistance since renewed volcanic activity started in March this year, including through the deployment of four GNS Science specialists currently providing increased technical support to the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD).

“This is a major operation for the Government of Vanuatu, and as a trusted partner and friend New Zealand stands by ready to assist further,” Peters added.