16 Mar 2010

NZ has Hercules on stand-by for Fiji

10:05 pm on 16 March 2010

The New Zealand Government has an Airforce Hercules on stand-by, to provide assistance to Fiji.

The Foreign Minister says the C-130 will head to Fiji from Whenuapai as soon as the weather conditions ease.

Murray McCully says New Zealand is working closely with its regional disaster relief partners, France and Australia, on how to best respond to the situation in Fiji.

Mr McCully says the Hercules will be able to carry emergency supplies, and help with aerial reconnaissance of stricken areas.

He says New Zealand stands ready to help Fiji, and that the ongoing political differences between the two countries will not inhibit the Government's response.