BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
An NZDF P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft on Friday afternoon last week conducted aerial assessment of the damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
New Zealand High Commissioner Jonathan Curr in a statement said the aerial damage surveillance flight was requested by the Solomon Islands Government.
Mr Curr said that early reports indicate that Western and Choiseul Provinces have sustained the worst damage in 20 years.
“As a member of our Pacific family, we are committed to supporting Solomon Islands in its time of need, working closely with Pacific Islands Forum partners such as Australia.
“The P8 conduct its tasking and will return before Tropical Cyclone Vaianu arrives in New Zealand later this weekend,” he said.
Mr Curr said New Zealand’s High Commission in Honiara will also offer emergency funding to support local response efforts, and will consider further support, as requested by the Solomon Islands government.
“Today’s (Friday 10) aerial damage surveillance flight is the result of excellent collaboration between New Zealand and Australia under the leadership of the Solomon Islands Government,” said Mr Curr.
The High Commissioner also expressed New Zealand’s concern for all Solomon Islanders affected by the devastation brought by TC Maila.
“Our thoughts and prayers are especially with those who have been injured, and those who have lost their homes and livelihoods,” said Mr Curr.
Photo credit: NZ High Commission
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