23/01/2025
The 2022 Tonga Disaster Relief Effort for ‘Eua: Our Story
In 2022, the devastating natural disaster that struck Tonga left a trail of destruction, particularly impacting the island of Eua. Witnessing the suffering, our group sprang into action, seeking assistance from various sources. We were incredibly fortunate to find partners in several hotels undergoing renovations, who generously donated a wealth of essential items.
Novotel Auckland Airport, in particular, played a pivotal role, providing an astounding volume of supplies: 181 beds (a mix of king, double, and split king sizes), approximately 50 duvets and blankets, 185 mattress protectors, roughly 1400 pillows, around 700 rubbish bins, 150 kettles, 50 hairdryers, and 60 ironing boards. These vital supplies were immediately transported to Eua to provide much-needed comfort and relief to the affected families.
Our efforts extended beyond the initial emergency response. Following the disaster, 14 families from Mango island were displaced and relocated to Eua. We were able to provide support and assistance to these families as well, ensuring they had essential resources to begin rebuilding their lives.
As the immediate crisis subsided, our focus shifted to supporting the long-term needs of the Eua community. We provided essential supplies such as food, clothing, bedding, and household items to the elderly, schools, hospitals, and even the prison. Our commitment to helping those in need remains unwavering.
Currently, our committee is working towards registering as a New Zealand non-profit organization. This will allow us to further expand our reach and impact. Every contribution, every hour volunteered, comes directly from our members' own pockets—a testament to the dedication and compassion within our group. We are incredibly grateful for the support of our growing membership, and we remain committed to serving the people of Eua. This journey has been a true blessing, demonstrating the power of collective action in the face of adversity.
