New Zealand has deployed military aircraft, personnel and humanitarian supplies to Papua New Guinea following the impact of Tropical Cyclone Maila.

A Royal New Zealand Air Force C-130J Hercules departed Auckland carrying essential aid, provided through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, to support communities affected by the severe weather event.

Authorities from both countries are now working together to coordinate distribution of the supplies to those most in need.

At the same time, a New Zealand Defence Force contingent has arrived in Port Moresby, with personnel set to spend up to three weeks working alongside the Papua New Guinea Defence Force and other government agencies.

The deployment includes the Royal New Zealand Navy vessel HMNZS Canterbury, which delivered two NH90 helicopters, aircrew and specialist response teams. The helicopters will focus on strengthening operational integration with PNG forces, while a deployable task group will assist with coordination and response efforts on the ground.

The mission builds on recent cooperation between the two nations, with NZDF personnel returning to Papua New Guinea for joint activities following similar engagements last year.

The deployment highlights New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to supporting Pacific neighbours during natural disasters, while also strengthening regional partnerships and emergency response capability.

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