Canada has deployed a navy frigate to assist with the rescue efforts to help people cut off by Monday’s devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake in New Zealand.
HMCS Vancouver, which is based at CFB Esquimalt on Vancouver Island, was already on its way to Auckland to participate in 75th anniversary celebrations for that country’s naval fleet.
At the request of officials in New Zealand, the ship has been diverted to provide humanitarian assistance.
HMCS Vancouver with its CH-124 Sea King helicopter and air detachment arrived off the coastal town of Kaikoura, South Island on Wednesday (EST) ready to begin operations almost immediately, said officials at the Department of National Defence (DND).
WATCH || Working together with our international friends down south ?⚓️// @Australian_Navy @PacificCommand @CanadianForces pic.twitter.com/bkKQ6ENt55
— NZ Defence Force (@NZDefenceForce) November 17, 2016
The CH-124 Sea King helicopter will be used to evacuate people from the affected area and transport relief supplies, said DND spokesperson Ashley Lemire.
“The ship is carrying basic Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Relief supplies onboard which may be useful if the need for assistance goes beyond the request for airlift,” she said. These basic supplies include first aid kits, tents, generators, blankets, chainsaws and hand tools.
Statement with Minister Sajjan: Canada sends #HMCSVancouver to assist in aftermath of New Zealand earthquake https://t.co/4rabuFWRPu pic.twitter.com/W5X4Mkpe8e
— Stéphane Dion (@MinCanadaFA) November 16, 2016
“Canada is pleased to support our friend and partner, New Zealand, following Monday’s disaster,” said a joint statement from Stéphane Dion, minister of foreign affairs, and Harjit Sajjan, minister of national defence.
“Canada stands firmly with the people of New Zealand during this difficult period.”
The magnitude 7.8 quake that struck New Zealand’s South Island early on Monday left two people dead. It also brought rocks and mud crashing down on highways and triggered a small tsunami.
Hundreds of people — including tourists — have been evacuated from the coastal town of Kaikoura after access was cut off by the quake damage.
Vessels from the U.S. and Australia are also expected to help restock the town with supplies such as water and fuel.
With files from The Associated Press
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