Kiwis in Tonga urged to register on SafeTravel – MFAT

Kiwis in Tonga continue to be urged to register their details on SafeTravel after underwater volcano Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha’apai erupted on Saturday, causing tsunami waves to hit the Pacific kingdom and other Pacific countries.

An eruption at Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha’apai has caused a tsunami, with an evacuation warning in place in Tonga.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said 30 Kiwis are currently registered on SafeTravel as being in Tonga.

A spokeswoman said its thoughts are with the people of Tonga as they respond to the “very concerning event”.

“The New Zealand High Commission in Nuku‘alofa is monitoring the situation closely and is in contact with local authorities,” she said.

The Commission said there are no official reports of injuries or deaths as of yet.

“However, communications are limited,” the spokeswoman said.

“A NZDF P3 Orion is on stand-by to provide aerial surveillance as soon as atmospheric conditions allow.”

New Zealand has formally offered to give Tonga assistance and an initial $500,000 has been set aside.

1News understands locals are sheltering at the New Zealand High Commission as the building is on higher ground.

If any Kiwis in Tonga require consular assistance they can contact the New Zealand High Commission in Nuku’alofa on +676 23122 or for consular emergencies +64 99 20 20 20.