A New Zealand search and rescue team is preparing to head into one of the areas of Japan hardest-hit by the tsunami, after refresher training on nuclear risk.
Team leader Jim Stuart-Black says the 48-strong team will go to the port town of Minamisanriku, which was devastated by the tsunami.
Mr Stuart-Black says in search and rescue efforts, time is critical, but the safety of the team is also vital.
He says the team spent much of the day dealing with logistical issues such as shattered infrastructure, and reviewing procedures so team members can work safely, and be evacuated quickly if something goes wrong.
Mr Stuart-Black told Checkpoint the team is being kept very well informed about any developments at the damaged nuclear plants.
He says the team is receiving updates from the Japanese authorities, as well as the National Radiation Laboratory in New Zealand and the International Atomic Energy Agency.
He says updates are coming in every 30 minutes and are at the forefront of the team's planning for the rescue effort ahead.
Mr Stuart-Black had been overseeing rescue and recovery operations in Christchurch.
Prime Minister John Key says he has been advised that sending the search and rescue team to Japan will not leave New Zealand vulnerable in the event of another natural disaster.
