New Zealand gives to cyclone-hit Tonga

This aerial photo released by the Royal New Zealand Air Force shows the damage to Ha'apai island group, in Tonga, following Cyclone Ian.

New Zealand has donated hundreds of emergency shelter kits and a further $300,000 to help residents of cyclone-hit Tonga.

Thousands of people sought shelter in evacuation centres after Tropical Cyclone Ian lashed northern Tonga with winds of up to 270km/h during the weekend, killing one person and injuring at least 14.

The powerful category four storm also damaged homes and infrastructure across the northern part of the worst-hit Ha'apai island group.

Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully today announced New Zealand would supply 300 emergency shelter kits which can provide shelter to over 2000 people.

The Government would also donate $300,000 to non-government organisations working on the ground, bringing its total contribution to $500,000, and assist the Red Cross with the provision of clean water on the islands of Ha'apai.

The relief supplies will be delivered to Tonga by a Defence Force C-130 this afternoon.

Meanwhile, Oxfam volunteers will be collecting funds for the Tonga relief effort at the Positively Pasifika festival in Wellington's Waitangi Park from noon tomorrow.