New Zealand is in close consultation with Australia over plans for future aid support to the Solomon Islands following devastating flooding.
At least 23 people have been confirmed dead, including children swept out to sea, after severe flash floods last Thursday. Twenty people are reported missing, but authorities haven't done a full evaluation yet and the Red Cross says the final death toll may reach 100.
Homes have been left uninhabitable after the flooding. Photo: SAVE THE CHILDREN
Murray McCully. Photo: RNZ
The Solomon Islands' national disaster committee said on Tuesday that food is finally getting through to evacuation centres in the capital, where about a fifth of Honiara's population (about 9000 people) fled the water.
New Zealand will provide a further $1.2 million to help, taking its total support to date to $1.5 million.
Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully said on Tuesday that it would also consider a wider recovery package, once long-term needs are assessed, and would be heavily influenced by what Australia is planning.
"I've spoken to Julie Bishop, the Australian Foreign Minister, today just to make sure that we're on the same page in that respect and they've given us an indication as to what their thinking is for the time immediately ahead.
"We''ve seen over a period of time that little problems can become big ones in the Solomon Islands, so it's important that both New Zealand and Australia were attentive to challenges that exist ... and make sure that they don't become a point of social disorder."
Mr McCully said the extra money would be used to provide relief supplies and to help restore health, water and sanitation systems.
An RNZAF Hercules delivered relief supplies on Monday night including tarpaulins, water containers and medical supplies.
Disaster response specialists from New Zealand government agencies, non-government organisations and the Red Cross were on the flight and helping with relief efforts, Mr McCully said.
Relief workers are hoping that improving weather will encourage Honiara residents back into their own homes and ease pressure on crowded evacuation centres.
Meanwhile, Solomon Islanders in New Zealand say they feel helpless, but are doing what they can to contribute.
Members of the Solomon Islands Wantok Association in Auckland are collecting household goods to send. The association has also organised a remembrance service on Easter Sunday for those who died.
