FROM THE EDITOR

It was one of the most eerie sights I think I’ve ever seen. One minute I was lying on the beach, enjoying the warmth of the great Kiwi summer like I did so many times over the break, the next, everything was orange.

It was an unnerving, strange reminder of the tragedy that’s still unfolding across the Tasman. The sheer scale of the disaster is unprecedented in its size and devastation, and the heartbreak I know we all feel for our mates across the ditch is overwhelming.

Our relationship with Australia is unique – fraternal, I guess, at its most fundamental level. There’s no-one else we love to give stick too, especially on the sporting field. They’re like that sibling who’s always trying to one-up you to get the biggest trophy to put on the mantelpiece – but in times of true need, we come together unlike any other two nations on earth.

They were there on March 15 of last year, offering assistance in any way they could, and we’re there now, with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern sending Kiwi firefighters, troops and helicopters to the affected areas. Our news editor Lynley

Ward and senior writer Julie Jacobson spent some time this week talking to Kiwis affected in the disaster, and what’s abundantly clear is everyone’s willingness and determination to lend a hand, whatever way they can.

Well-known faces have donated phenomenal amounts of money, and everyday people the world over have been digging deep to offer what they can. If you’re keen to contribute, a great place to start is fundraise.redcross.org.au/drr.

It’s a long road ahead, and I know all of our thoughts are with Australia as they journey down it.

Kia kaha.