Dozens of workers from Vanuatu, who have been employed in New Zealand’s orchards and vineyards, are currently stranded in Fiji following a powerful earthquake that struck their home country. With commercial flights suspended, these workers are anxiously awaiting the reopening of Bauerfield International Airport, which local authorities estimate may remain closed until at least Saturday.
Scenes of disarray can be seen as more than 80 workers attempt to secure accommodations for the night at the Grand Melanesian Hotel in Nadi. Among them is Danson Kirk, who described his distressing experience during the earthquake. While speaking with his wife, she informed him of the earthquake’s intensity before all communication went dark. Fortunately, telecommunications were restored later, allowing him to confirm that his family was safe.
Emergency response teams from Australia and New Zealand have been deployed to assist with the situation, prioritizing the search for survivors. Kirk, along with his fellow workers, expressed a strong desire to return home to support their families in the aftermath of the disaster.
Francis Kelep, another worker, noted the overwhelming arrival of his group at the hotel, which led to some being moved to alternative accommodations. Although the workers were weary from travel, they remained in good spirits, uplifting one another through jokes and music.
Kelep also shared the anxiety of not being able to reach their families for updates on their well-being. He emphasized their urgency to return home to assess the safety of their loved ones. Despite the uncertainty and challenges faced, the workers maintain hope and prayers for a swift return.
While the situation may seem dire, the resilience and camaraderie among the stranded workers exemplify the strength of community. Their unwavering support for each other, along with the aid being provided by emergency teams, showcases a collective determination to overcome this crisis.
In summary, the stranded Vanuatu workers are faced with significant challenges due to the earthquake that struck their nation, but their strong bond and the ongoing assistance from external support give hope that they will soon reunite with their families.
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