New Zealand assistance

New Zealand assists Tonga to construct new NEMO warehouse in Ha’apai

The funding is an assistance from MFAT for the construction of a new NEMO distribution warehouse in Ha’apai as part of Tonga’s recovery phase to the Hunga-Tonga Hunga-Ha’apai eruption and Tsunami event in January.

Howell’s visit to Matatoa was also an opportunity to view prepositioning supplies funded by MFAT for future events.

Howell and his High Commission Staff, were joined by the CEO of MEIDECC, Paula Ma’u, NEMO’s Director Mafua Vai’utukakau and staff from NEMO.

New Zealand to support Pacific neighbours in accessing Covid-19 vaccines

Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta confirmed $75 million had been earmarked to support Pacific and global vaccine access and roll-out. 

“New Zealand is pursuing a portfolio of potential Covid-19 vaccines to ensure we have flexibility and choice in the fast-moving global marketplace. 

"We want to make sure Pacific countries can also access suitable options, and have the support they need to run successful immunisation campaigns,” she says.

NZ to assist Tonga countries with measles response

The associate health minister, Julie Anne Genter, said New Zealand has offered advice and assistance and stands ready to help in any way.

"I understand Samoa is working through its response and authorities have requested that any support from New Zealand, waits until Samoa's needs are more clear," Ms Genter said.

Epidemics were declared in Samoa and Tonga this week, and both were spread from New Zealand, where an outbreak in Auckland has affected nearly 2000 people.

NZ to help Tonga upgrade capital electricity network

Foreign Minister Winston Peters said this funding was for the first stage of a five-year project to improve the reliability, resilience, and safety of the electricity supply for more than 2000 households and businesses.

He said it was in addition to $US5 million in additional emergency funding for repairs following Cyclone Gita, announced earlier today.

Mr Peters said the network upgrade would deliver reduced line losses, reduced emissions from diesel generation, and generate savings of hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.