A major earthquake – 8.3 on the Richter scale – followed by a tsunami, struck Samoa around 7am this morning. The tsunami hit the south coast of Samoa and destroyed holiday resorts and a new hospital as well as many homes. People ran to high hills but some people did not manage to escape the waves. At this stage, it is difficult to get exact news but some reports say that 140 people have died and many people have been injured.

New Zealand has sent two Air Force planes with doctors, medical supplies, clothing and blankets. More helpers will fly to Samoa tomorrow.

Meanwhile, Samoans living in New Zealand are very worried about their relatives. It is hard to get information. Also some bodies are buried in the sand and others were taken out to sea by the waves so it will be some time before local people find out who is missing.

New Zealand also wants to know about other islands in the Pacific. We are waiting to get more information about Tonga and other islands near Samoa.