New Zealand will help the Tonga Red Cross replenish their stocks of emergency supplies following Cyclone Wilma in January.

New Zealand's assistance will support the New Zealand Red Cross to work with their counterparts in Tonga to restock supplies used during the response to Cyclone Wilma.

"Cyclone Wilma cased damage to around 86 homes in the in the Ha'apai group and the Tongan Government has identified food security and the repair of schools and residential houses as priority areas," New Zealand's High Commissioner to Tonga, Dr Jonathan Austin said.

"The Tongan Government has been leading the response to Cyclone Wilma and local organisations such as the Tonga Red Cross have been distributing supplies to affected families.

"New Zealand's assistance will enable the Tonga Red Cross to replenish their stocks of blankets, tarpaulins and kitchen sets.

"The Pacific is only halfway through this Cyclone Season and ensuring that frontline response agencies, such as the Tonga Red Cross, have the supplies they need to respond to future events is a priority for the New Zealand Government," said Dr Austin.

For more information contact Peter.Kemp@mfat.govt.nz