CathNews New Zealand

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand is  continuing to support Caritas Tonga to assist communities to recover and rebuild after Tropical Cyclone Ian devastated the Ha’apai islands of Tonga three weeks ago.

It is estimated that 75 per cent of buildings in Ha’apai have been destroyed or have major damage.

Crops, infrastructure and water supplies also having sustained significant damage.

Amelia Ma’afu, Caritas Tonga programmes coordinator, says providing a safe water supply is the top priority.

“Drinking water is a major problem. Cyclone damage to the water supply has resulted in contamination, so people are advised not to drink piped water. Rainwater tanks which many people use have also been damaged.”

Caritas Tonga is providing clean drinking water for 1,500 people in Ha’apai.

Source:

• Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand
• Image: Radio New Zealand

Additional reading

• Caritas pledges $40,000 in wake if cyclone in Tonga
• Supplies reaching cyclone-hit islands
• Relief distribution still a challenge on Tonga's islands

News category: New Zealand.