NZDF aid efforts in the Solomon Islands to date

* On Sunday 8 April an eight person team, made up of six Royal New Zealand Air Force and two New Zealand Army personnel, departed on a RNZAF C-130 Hercules for Honiara to assist with aid efforts in the Solomon Islands.

* On Tuesday 3 April a RNZAF C-130 Hercules delivered NZAID supplies including tarpaulins, water bottles and field kitchen units to Munda air field.

* Currently a combined RAMSI section which includes seven NZ soldiers is providing security for a damage assessment team on Gizo Island.

* The majority of the remaining NZ soldiers currently serving in the Solomons are providing general security in and around the Gizo area.

Background - Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands:

* RAMSI is a partnership between the government of the Solomon Islands and contributing pacific nations, including New Zealand and Australia. It aims to ensure security and assists the Solomon Island's people and government to develop the skills and institutions for successful self governance.

* New Zealand has supported the RAMSI mission since July 2003 at the request of the Solomon Island's government. The NZDF will maintain a continued presence in the Solomon Islands until a yet to be determined date

* The mission in the Solomon Islands requires strong infantry skills and an ability to get on well with the local people. The New Zealand troops regularly liaise with locals, conduct patrols, provide assistance to police and help with external security at Rove Prison.

ENDS

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