New Zealand supports Solomon Islands disaster response after Cyclone Maila, delivering aid and emergency supplies.
New Zealand is providing support to Solomon Islands’ disaster response following the impact of Cyclone Maila, which has affected communities in Western and Choiseul provinces, as well as Isabel and Guadalcanal.
The assistance is aimed at addressing priorities identified by national authorities and supporting response efforts in affected areas.
Funding has been approved for the Solomon Islands National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) to support operations in Honiara, Western and Choiseul provinces. This includes deployment of the National Emergency Response Team (NERT) and support for preparedness at the national warehouse and staging area in Munda.
New Zealand is also working with non-government organisations to deliver humanitarian assistance. In partnership with World Vision, approximately 3.5 tonnes of pre-positioned emergency supplies have been distributed to affected communities in Kolombangara and Simbo Island. The supplies include shelter materials, hygiene and kitchen kits, blankets and canvasses.
Additional funding has been provided to Save the Children to support early response activities, including rapid assessments, deployment of response teams, and distribution of emergency supplies and food assistance. The organisation is also establishing child-friendly spaces and providing psychological first aid, with a focus on child protection and prevention of gender-based violence.
A call for proposals has been launched to provide further support through humanitarian partners.
New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jonathan Curr, said the support is being delivered in coordination with national and provincial authorities and through partner organisations.
The New Zealand Defence Force deployed a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to conduct aerial damage assessments following a request from Solomon Islands authorities.
New Zealand is expected to continue supporting response and recovery efforts following Cyclone Maila.
