Vanuatu needs further support in order to make it through this summer with enough food and water according to New Zealand Red Cross.
Photo: 123RF
El Niño conditions in the Pacific are expected to bring drought to the island nation, which was devastated by Cyclone Pam in March.
The head of Red Cross New Zealand's international programme, Phil Brewster, said the country was still rebuilding, and its water systems were not yet fully restored.
The Ni-Vanuatu relied heavily on agriculture for their livelihoods, and the country would find it difficult if drought strikes, Mr Brewster said.
The country would need dedicated assistance, despite efforts to help Vanuatu become more resilient.
"We've already seen across the humanitarian community in the Pacific the beginnings of contingency plans for high incidence of drought and an increased risk of cyclones.
"There will need to be external support provided."
Rebuild kits were distributed on Tanna after devastation by Cyclone Pam. Photo: RNZI Courtesy of Care International
The political turmoil in Vanuatu was not hampering the recovery from Cyclone Pam, Mr Brewster said.
Last month, 14 MPs - including the deputy prime minister and parliament's speaker - were convicted of bribery and jailed.
But the political trouble has not impeded aid and reconstruction efforts.
"We work very closely with the government ... it has so far had no implications whatsoever and we're working well together."