NZ tech aid on way to Cook Islands

New Zealand telecommunications technicians will head to the Cook Islands tomorrow to help repair damage caused by Cyclone Olaf last night, and further assistance is likely in the next few days, Foreign Minister Phil Goff says.

Mr Goff said Cyclone Olaf was the third cyclone to batter the Cook Islands in the last 10 days.

"Locals are making a huge effort to clean up but people are tired and resources are already stretched to the limit after Cyclone Meena and Cyclone Nancy, so the Cook Islands government has asked for our assistance," he said.

"They have specifically requested technicians to help restore power lines and telecommunication services, which have both sustained compounding damage from the three cyclones, and heavy equipment to assist with the overall clean up of Rarotonga."

Mr Goff said that if needed Royal New Zealand Air Force planes could also be made available to assist with damage assessment flights or to transport equipment and supplies.

He said New Zealand was working closely with our Pacific emergency relief partners France and Australia on the overall response.

Mr Goff said he spoke this morning to High Commissioner Kurt Meyer, who reported extensive damage around Rarotonga, especially to the western side of the island where the High Commission and many tourist resorts are located.

The Edgewater and Crown Beach resorts have both sustained serious damage and will be closed for at least a month.

"I understand that Air New Zealand will be running an additional flight to Rarotonga to bring out any affected tourists. Because of the damage to resorts, I would advise New Zealanders planning to travel to Rarotonga to check with their travel agents prior to departure," Mr Goff said.

- NZPA