Relief plane delivers supplies

A first plane with foodstuffs, medical supplies and other items has landed safely in the northern Cook Islands

27 February 2010
An Air Force Hercules has arrived safely with supplies in the northern Cook Islands.

The plane from New Zealand landed last night in Rarotonga and took off from there at midday on its way to Penrhyn atoll.

Senior national officer squadron leader Kavae Tamariki says the plane is just about to return to Rarotonga. He says the Air Force aims to do two flights while the Hercules is there.

"The first flight was mainly foodstuffs, medical supplies and other general items that are required for the island. Tomorrow we hope to put on building materials."

Mr Tamariki says the materials will restore roofing and wall linings for people whose houses were damaged in the depression that hit two days ago. He says the heavy rain and high wind ripped roofs off houses, schools and government buildings.

© 2010 NZCity, NewsTalkZB