NZ support for Cooks following Cyclone Pat

New Zealand will make an initial contribution of $200,000 for relief and recovery efforts in the Cook Islands in the wake of Cyclone Pat, Foreign Minister Murray McCully announced today.
Cyclone Pat hit the southern Cook Islands on Thursday, causing widespread damage on the island of Aitutaki.
“Thankfully, there are no reported deaths or serious injuries in Aitutaki, although there has been widespread destruction, with early estimates suggesting that up to 90 percent of buildings have sustained damage,” Mr McCully said.
“Today’s funding is a first step, and the New Zealand Government will continue to work with authorities in the Cook Islands to decide how we can best support ongoing recovery efforts on Aitutaki,” Minister McCully said.
New Zealand’s support will be channelled through the Cook Islands Red Cross, and will be used to respond to direct requests for supplies and assistance from the Cook Islands Government.