Tonga Tsunami

The meeting commenced on Monday in Nuku'alofa with the attendence of various stakeholders.

It is hearing the details of Tonga's tsunami response during the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcanic eruption of january 2022 and its impacts.

In his opening statement, Japanese Seismologist Dr Tanioka Yuichiro said the eruption has captivated scientists.

A field study by American researchers last year, found the eruption may have triggered a wave up to 85 metres high.

Some resorts and restaurants were destroyed in the disaster, and limited internet and telecommunications are hampering services for others.

The owner of the Vakaloa Resort in Tonga Maryanne Tukuafu whose business was decimated in the tsunami disaster, said the country's economic recovery will be long term.

Three ships have been deployed to assist with the aid effort with the HMNZS Canterbury the latest to set sail for Tonga overnight.

The ship has two NH90 helicopters, personnel and supplies onboard and is set to arrive in Tonga early next week.

The Defence Force are working with MFAT and the supplies onboard include water, tarpaulins and milk powder.

The HMNZS Canterbury is also carrying vehicles and several containers of construction equipment requested by Tongan authorities to assist with the recovery efforts following the eruption and tsunami.

Because communications have been severely disrupted, it has been difficult to determine the extent of the devastation. However, pleas for immediate assistance have been made, with food and clean drinking water at the top of the priority list.

Centre Malakai Fekitoa has launched the fundraiser and in support of his efforts, Wasps have vowed to to donate 20 per cent of all match ticket revenue from their upcoming Gallagher Premiership match vs Saracens on Sunday 30 January to the cause.

On Saturday a massive underwater volcanic eruption triggered a tsunami in Tonga, an "unprecedented disaster" as their government officials have described it. The humanitarian crisis - communication lines are down and ash and sulphuric gases fill the air - has been deeply felt, in particular, by those who have connections with the country. Glasgow's Walter Fifita being one of them.

The third year student at the University of the South Pacific said she has been restless ever since she knew about the tragic event.

“I spoke to them at around 5pm on Saturday before I was completely cut out.” It was a very short call because my sister was picking up some children from the streets who were rushing to safety, to take shelter in our house.”

Lenati said she could not believe the devastation that occurred over the weekend in Tonga as she watched videos and photos on social media.

The tsunami was caused by the volcanic eruption over last weekend.

Taufatofua is currently in Australia. 

“I am mobilising all the assistance I can to send to our beloved Tonga. In the coming days, weeks we will need your help.”

“Initial priority for the funds will go towards those most in need, infrastructure and damage to schools, hospitals etc. This is an ongoing fundraiser and will be updated regularly. Your assistance and support in this time of need is greatly appreciated.”