PM condemns Bali bombings

Caretaker Prime Minister Helen Clark has condemned last night's bombings in Bali, which killed at least 30 people and injured more than 100, as callous and cowardly.

Helen Clark said she had written to Indonesian President Suslio Bambang Yudhoyono today, saying the New Zealand Government was appalled at such cowardly and indiscriminate acts of violence.

"Such cowardly and indiscriminate acts of violence , which are deliberately aimed at innocent people, are an affront to humanity," the letter says.

She has offered whatever assistance Indonesia requires in the aftermath of the bombings.

"Our thoughts are first and foremost with the families and friends of those who have borne the brunt of what is another callous and cold-blooded attack," she said.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Mfat) has set up a toll-free number -- 0800 432 111 -- to take calls from New Zealanders wanting to check on family members and friends who might be in the area.

Mfat said there were no reports of New Zealanders among the casualties by late this morning.

The ministry also issued a warning to New Zealanders in Bali to exercise extreme caution and to remain in their hotels.

Earlier today Foreign Affairs Minister Phil Goff said New Zealand embassy staff were checking morgues and hospitals in Bali.

It is the second time terrorists have brought carnage to the Indonesian resort island in three years.

The near simultaneous blasts at two packed seafood cafes on Jimbaran beach and a three-story noodle and steak house in downtown Kuta occurred days before the anniversary of the October 12, 2002 bombings that killed 202 people -- including three New Zealanders and 88 Australians -- at two nightclubs just a short walk away.

Mr Goff said New Zealand consular staff were working closely with the Australians to find out if any New Zealanders had been caught up in the blasts.

His Australian counterpart, Alexander Downer, said one 16-year-old Australian had been killed in the blasts and the government was "greatly concerned" for the survival of two others.

- NZPA