Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management Director Sarah Stuart-Black visited Waiau, Mt Lyford and Kaikoura today alongside representatives of GNS, EQC and the Insurance Council.

“Seeing the damage first hand was humbling. Communities here are continuing to support each other as we move towards recovery, and I’ve really appreciated hearing from people who experienced the earthquake first-hand,” she says.

“The purpose of today’s meetings was to give some of the people affected by the earthquakes the chance to hear first-hand information and provide the opportunity for them to ask questions.”

The Ministry’s priorities remain the same; taking care of essential needs such as food, shelter and medical requirements, as well as working towards recovery planning.

Controlled access through the in-road to Kaikoura for military and emergency vehicles was re-established for today. A New Zealand Defence Force convoy has arrived in Kaikoura, bringing food and other necessities to the quake damaged area.

The vehicles travelled via the inland route, a seven and a half hour journey over challenging earthquake-damaged terrain, to bring to the town 7,320 litres of diesel and 1,540 litres of petrol for Kaikoura’s petrol stations and emergency services. It also brought 10,000 litres of potable water for distribution and nine Army soldiers who will cater for the 250 patients at Kaikoura Hospital. The inland road remains closed to the public.

Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management Director Sarah Stuart-Black says the arrival of the 27 vehicle convoy in Kaikoura is “a great step forward”.

Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups are currently not accepting generous offers of donated goods. If you wish to support earthquake affected communities, you could consider making a donation to a fundraising appeal.

Aftershocks are continuing to be felt in many parts of New Zealand. If you need support or are concerned about how the situation is affecting you or your whānau, you can call the 24/7 Earthquake Support Line - 0800 777 846 - for support and advice.

ENDS

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