Tsunami: New Zealand woman dead in Phuket

Damage caused by a tsunami at Patong beach in Phuket. Picture / Reuters

One New Zealander has been confirmed dead following an massive earthquake and tsunami that has devastated southeast Asia, Foreign Affairs Minister Phil Goff said today.

The unnamed married woman, who was travelling with her family, died in Thailand's southern resort of Phuket.

"At this point we have no other known New Zealand casualties or missing people who are of particular concern," he said.

"However, we cannot rule out that there may be other casualties."

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Flight Centre managing director Graeme Moore said there were between 50 and 100 New Zealanders from their books in the area, some were holidaying while others were staying with relatives.

Most were in Thailand's holiday spots.

The company had few tourists over there because it was not a peak period.

"We have got all our people contacting all of the key hotels just to find out what the story is because it becomes more an issue of health and hygiene."

In the coming few months, there are quite a few bookings to Thailand because people who used to go to Bali now go to Phuket.

Some people would be cancelling but some would just re-book for a different destination.

The company is contacting those who have holidays planned within six to eight weeks because it was difficult to tell how quickly the region would bounce back.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs had no advice on travel to Southeast Asia on the website this morning.

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World Vision NZ today appealed for donations for emergency relief in the countries affected by the tsunami.

"Because we work in these countries, and have our own people on the ground, we've been able to respond immediately with rescue teams, food parcels and emergency shelter," chief executive Helen Green.

"Emergency relief staff are assessing the damage now and we'll hear from them later today," says Mrs Green.

She said World Vision NZ was accepting donations for emergency relief in the affected countries. Donations can be made by phoning 0800 80 2000.

Catholic aid agency Caritas also appealed for donations to assist with victims of the tsunami and warned that the next four or five days would be one of the most critical periods.

Caritas New Zealand emergency manager Tim Chriswell said affected communities would be in shock.

"Loss of life will be very severe in some localities and this poses critical public health and access challenges," he said in a statement.

"Many have clearly lost their homes and possessions, livelihoods, and stores of food, and may also have to deal with contaminated water sources."

Donations to the Caritas appeal can be posted to PO Box 12-193 Wellington or $20 donations made by calling 0900 411 11.

- NZPA and HERALD STAFF