Twelve tonnes of food, water, tarpaulins and other relief supplies have arrived in Fiji on a New Zealand Defence Force Hercules.

The ship is also carrying emergency supplies like tool kits, generators, water containers, ration packs and chainsaws for families affected by the cyclone.

“We have brought emergency supplies including tool kits, generators, water and water containers, ration packs and chainsaws for families affected by the cyclone,” said Air Commodore Kevin McEvoy, the Acting Commander Joint Forces New Zealand.

“An inter-agency Joint Reconnaissance Team that includes NZDF personnel are now on the ground assisting the government of Fiji in assessing the impact of the cyclone and the needs in affected communities. We stand ready to provide further assistance if required.”

Cyclone Winston has left a trail of destruction in Fiji. Water, power and communication outages are expected to continue for several days. Flooding in coastal areas is not forecast to subside until after two to three days. Many people also remain in emergency shelters.

PHOTOS: Devastation from Cyclone Winston in Maritime Communities