NZ ANNOUNCES MORE CYCLONE HAROLD SUPPORT FOR HERE

The New Zealand government has announced additional funding of NZ$1 million (FJ$1.37m) for Fiji following the aftermath of

Tropical Cyclone Harold, bringing the total response package to NZ$2 million (FJ$2.75m).

High Commissioner Jonathan Curr said that additional humanitarian funding will address immediate relief efforts and support early recovery activities.

“We will be providing an additional NZ$1 million (FJ$1.37m) to support the response including relief and early recovery efforts by the Government of Fiji as well as Fiji and New Zealand-based non-government organisations,” said Mr Curr.

This contribution includes direct funding to the Prime Minister’s National Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund, support for the Fiji Red Cross and non-government organisations. “This additional package of assistance reflects New Zealand’s commitment to stand by its close neighbour and work collectively to help Fijians get back on their feet,” Mr Curr said.

Through the initial $1 million (FJ$1.37m) response package, New Zealand has already supported a number of agencies including the National Disaster Management Office through the provision of over 25 tonnes of relief supplies deployed from Auckland as well as funding for locally procured food rations.

New Zealand has also supported local non-government organisations including the Foundation for Rural and Integrated Development (FRIEND), Empower Pacific, DIVA and Rotary.