11 April 2007

Solomon Islands: New Zealand Red Cross relief operation in action

The Solomon Islands Red Cross led relief operation, supported by New Zealand Red Cross, in the Western provinces of the Solomon Islands is in full swing. The Western provinces were the worst affected by the earthquake and subsequent tsunami that hit over a week ago.

New Zealand Red Cross aid worker, Nelson based Andrew Macalister, is coordinating a fleet of six ships, distributing food, water, water containers, tarpaulins and other emergency supplies that are arriving daily into Gizo from around the world.

"Almost everyone has been affected in one way or another. Our focus is getting aid to those who need it as quickly as possible," says Mr Macalister.

West Auckland based New Zealand Red Cross aid worker Victoria Fray, a water and sanitation specialist, is working alongside her international Red Cross counterparts from Australia, France and Tonga, collecting data on the number of people and their corresponding needs in 400 villages on five islands in the Western Province.

Once basic needs are met, New Zealand Red Cross' focus in the Solomon Islands will be supporting the delivery of non-food items such as tarpaulins, hygiene sets and tools for rebuilding lost homes and gardens.

New Zealand Red Cross is working with Solomon Islands Red Cross to evaluate longer term recovery priorities including water, sanitation and health needs.

ENDS

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