Locals help victims of Cyclone Winston

AID: (L to R) Mike Sahayam, Koli Sewabu and mayor Grant Smith with the first donation to the community relief fund. PHOTO: PNCC

A relief fund has been set up for locals to donate to those affected by what could be one of the Pacific's worst disasters.

Tropical Cyclone Winston ripped through Fiji on February 22, affecting more than 40 per cent of the population. The category 5 storm destroyed villages and schools, and thousands of people were displaced, hunkering down in more than 800 shelters.

Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith made the first deposit of $100 alongside another $100 from the Mayoral Relief Fund to the fundraising scheme.

Mr Smith has also put out a challenge to other mayors and councillors across the region to make their own contribution.

"I am happy to contribute in any way I can," he said.

"Fiji is one of our closest neighbours ... if I can help I will."

Palmerston North has a large Fijian community including Mike Sahayam and Koli Sewabu.

Both men have families in Fiji and are getting behind the community scheme.

"I have family living on Bataki Island," Mr Sewabu said.

"The Island took a direct hit from the cyclone and 10 foot tidal waves surged across the island and took everything except the church and concrete water tanks."

He said neighbouring island Koro was also severely affected, including the loss of several lives.

Mr Sahayam said members in the community with family living in affected areas were feeling distressed.

"Many families have absolutely nothing. They have to start building their lives again," he said.

Donations to the fund can be monetary, but items such as camping gear and cookers are also welcome.

To drop off goods contact Brian on 027 612 0787 or Luisa on (06) 358-6388. Donations can be made to Kiwibank 38-9012-0501671-00.