NZDF successful in transport of aid to communities in Papua New Guinea

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has transported more than 31 tonnes of relief supplies to provinces in Papua New Guinea still recovering from floods and a 6.9 magnitude earthquake in March.

15 May, 2024

NZDF personnel and a Royal New Zealand Air Force C-130H (NZ) Hercules deployed last week to Papua New Guinea, after the Government of Papua New Guinea asked for help getting supplies from the capital to affected communities.

News agencies reporting on the March 24 earthquake in East Sepik say it caused several fatalities and destroyed more than 1,000 homes. At the time villages in the vicinity of the Sepik River were battling widespread flooding.

The NZDF team worked with counterparts in Papua New Guinea to deliver the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief stores.

Over six flights to five different airfields, 31 tonnes of supplies were delivered for onward distribution by road to 10 provinces in Papua New Guinea.

The relief supplies included tents, tarpaulins, blankets, sleeping bags, jerry cans, kitchen sets and generators.

The Hercules and personnel, operating out of RNZAF Base Auckland, returned to New Zealand on Monday.