New Zealand navy deployed to help with Fiji cyclone relief

The New Zealand government Wednesday stepped up assistance to cyclone-struck Fiji, announcing the deployment of a navy supply ship to help with relief and recovery efforts.

Foreign Minister Murray McCully said the deployment of HMNZS Canterbury to help following tropical cyclone Winston showed New Zealand's commitment to supporting the government and people of Fiji.

"Cyclone Winston has caused extensive and widespread devastation across Fiji, taking lives, and destroying homes and infrastructure," McCully said.

The ship would leave Auckland this weekend with essential supplies, such as building materials, water storage tanks, and medical supplies, as well as helicopters and medical and engineering personnel.

A further contingent of New Zealand Defence Force and New Zealand Fire service engineers would depart Wednesday to support the Fiji authorities with repairs to public buildings and critical infrastructure.

New Zealand air force C-130s were already delivering relief supplies and equipment in Fiji, and a P3 Orion continued to carry out regular reconnaissance flights.

"This is one of the most damaging cyclones in Fiji's history and this is reflected in the scale of our response. New Zealand will continue to do all we can to help and we will stand with Fiji in the aftermath of this disaster," McCully said.

The New Zealand government has also give more than 2 million NZ dollars (1.32 million U.S. dollars) to help with relief efforts.

Tropical Cyclone Winston has reportedly killed at least 42 people and about 13,000 people are still living in emergency shelters.