Volcanic eruption devastation

Niue Acting Premier acknowledges tremendous support for Tonga Relief Fund

Funds totaling $36,902 NZD were raised at the National Prayer Service held at the Ekalesia Kerisiano Niue Millennium Hall on 26 January and at the Radiophon held at the Broadcasting Corporation of Niue on 14 February and through the many donations made online.

Acting Premier Tongatule who is also the Minister for Social Services expressed his delight at the way the organizations and people within the community of Niue have acted together and responded to the appeal from the Government.

Tonga eruption: Seasonal workers hit hard - report

The eruption triggered a tsunami that destroyed villages, resorts and infrastructure. It also knocked out communications for the South Pacific nation of about 105,000 people.

Three lives were lost as a result of the disaster.

A report by a group of researchers has revealed that the breakdown of communications early in the aftermath of the disaster meant many seasonal workers in Aotearoa and Australia were "left in the dark, not knowing whether their families were safe or not."