Our NZ friends on stand-by to help

New Zealand High Commission in Suva is keeping a close watch on Tropical Cyclone Josie updates. High Commissioner to Fiji Jonathan Curr yesterday met the Minister for National Disaster Management and Meteorological Services Inia Seruiratu to discuss areas of possible help from New Zealand.

“The NZ High Commission has been in close contact with Fiji’s National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) over the weekend,” Mr Curr said.

“New Zealand has resources on stand-by throughout the cyclone season which can be made available in response to a request from the Government of Fiji, as was the case after Cyclone Winston.

“We remain in close touch with the NDMO as they complete their initial damage assessments and consider whether assistance from Fiji’s international partners will be required.’’

He said the New Zealand Aid Programme had been working with the NDMO on disaster preparedness activities since the devastating floods of March 2012.

“This support includes funding for community training, divisional Disaster Risk Reduction Officers, portable water tanks and a 13-tonne delivery truck, and upgrades for NDMO’s warehouses, all of which are being put to use during the current emergency response.

“The High Commission also extends its sincerest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives over Easter as a result of TC Josie.”