An experienced crew of Kiwi urban search and rescue personnel is set to arrive in Vanuatu later today to assist with search efforts in the wake of Tuesday’s devastating earthquake.
At least 14 people are confirmed dead following the 7.3 magnitude quake, with more than 200 injured.
An NZDF Hercules, carrying the urban search and rescue personnel, was set to land in Port Vila last night but needed to be diverted to Noumea due to an engine fire warning.
In a statement at about 11.40am this morning, the defence force confirmed a second flight had landed in Noumea to recover the crew and equipment and take them to Vanuatu.
Speaking to Breakfast this morning, Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) deputy national commander Brendan Nally said once the crew arrive in Vanuatu, their primary task will be searching damaged buildings for survivors.
Efforts concentrate on finding survivors while others work to restore shattered utilities on the Pacific Island. (Source: 1News)
“It is likely, given the nature of the damage and earthquake, that their first taskings will be focused on saving life.
“So that’s removing people from collapsed buildings and potentially landslide situations.”
Nally said the crew had a “wide range of skills” and geotech engineering and construction expertise.
“This is a team of veterans. We chose them very carefully, and they are a very experienced crew to go into this situation.”
He said MFAT had asked the crew to be operational for 14 days, meaning they would likely remain in the country until the new year.
“Can I just point out that these people have gone knowing that they are giving up their Christmas to go and help, so there are families all over New Zealand right now whose loved ones are on the way to Port Vila.
“I’m very very proud of our people, I’m extremely proud of the families that stand up and let our people go and do the good work.”
With widespread supply shortages in the wake of the earthquake, Nally said it was “really important” that crews don’t put pressure on current infrastructure. He said they have “everything” they need to operate independently once on the ground.
“As long as we have a flat piece of ground, then everything else we have with us.”
The crew will be able to desalinate their water and generate power and have taken their own equipment.
He said there was also capacity to send further staff if needed as well.
“However, we’re really mindful of our domestic situation as well.”
At least 14 people were killed after the 7.3 magnitude quake struck on Tuesday. (Source: 1News)
He said that while it was a “balancing act”, FENZ was “ready to go” and supply more resources.
At first light today, another Hercules departed for Port Vila carrying search and rescue equipment, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief supplies. It arrived in Vanuatu late this morning.
Also on board the flight were MFAT consular staff and six NZDF personnel, including medics and staff. This group will assist with planning the emergency response and evacuation of New Zealanders, the NZDF said.
This afternoon, an RNZAF Boeing 757 will head to Vanuatu, carrying more humanitarian assistance and disaster relief stores.