Cook Islands cyclone damage 'unbelievable'

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The Cook Islands suffered "unbelievable" devastation in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Pat, New Zealand Defence Force relief workers say.

About 50 air force and army personnel left the Cook Islands yesterday after a two-week operation to provide disaster relief in the wake of the cyclone, which struck the tiny atoll of Aitutaki over a fortnight ago.

Air force Flight Lieutenant Matt Walls said the destruction on Aitutaki seemed "unbelievable" when he first landed.

"Debris strewn throughout the island, houses completely destroyed, most with their roofs and walls gone," he said.

An air force C130 Hercules delivered about 40 tonnes of aid, including a water purification plant, two diggers, emergency shelters and tents, food, blankets and electrical cabling.

Twelve army engineers helped to construct emergency shelters, restore power and fresh water, and repair the largest school on the island.

A second Hercules was sent in the wake of a tropical depression which caused damage to houses, schools and government buildings on Penrhyn, in the northern Cook Islands.

Squadron Leader Kavae Tamariki, who headed the relief effort, said aid agencies were assisting locals and the emergency relief phase was now over.

"The Cook Islands government has already begun work on the long-term recovery plan, so it all bodes well," he said.

- NZPA