The Wireless

Tonga needs money, not clothes

08:04 am on 14 January 2014

Charities collecting for cyclone aid in Tonga are urging people to give money rather than food or clothes.

About 800 houses have been damaged or destroyed by Cyclone Ian, a category five storm which hit the northern Ha'apai island group on Saturday.

Because of the damage to ports, the New Zealand Disaster Relief Forum says it is unclear if shipments of supplies can get through, so people should donate money instead.

The forum also says housing and agricultural equipment are the most-needed supplies.