First flight to Tonga since tsunami on way to deliver contactless aid

Wellington Jan. 20 (BNA): New Zealand has left Tonga’s first flight since Saturday’s volcanic eruption and will disembark aid supplies in a contact-free operation.

The eruption of the Hang, Tonga, Hongya and Hapai volcanoes in Tonga has killed at least three people, Deutsche News Agency (dpa) reported, covering the Pacific nation in volcanic ash and sending tidal waves (tsunami) across the wider Pacific Ocean.

On Thursday, Foreign Minister Nana Mahuta said a Hercules plane had left Auckland loaded with jerry cans, temporary shelter kits, generators, hygiene and bedding and communications equipment.

It will be a contactless delivery of supplies in an effort to keep Tonga free of Covid-19 and he will return to New Zealand later on Thursday.

Aircraft have not yet been able to land in Tonga since the volcano erupted as volcanic ash was covering the now-cleared runway.

Meanwhile, a New Zealand ship is expected to arrive in Tonga later on Thursday.

Defense Minister Benny Henary said the plane was carrying hydrographic and diving personnel and a helicopter to help deliver the supplies.

Henari said the crew’s first task would be to check the shipping channels and berths leading to the port of Tonga.

A second ship carrying bulk water supplies, as well as other aid, is expected to arrive in Tonga on Friday, while a third ship is being prepared to leave New Zealand for Tonga on Saturday.

“We are talking to Tonga about what they need from us most and we can assure them of our continued support,” Mahuta said.

Communications with Tonga remain limited, although some international calls can now be made via a satellite link.

However, the request exceeded capacity and the connection was inconsistent.

MI