Dozens of workers from Vanuatu who had been employed in New Zealand’s orchards and vineyards are currently stranded in Fiji due to the closure of commercial flights following a devastating 7.3 magnitude earthquake that struck their homeland. Local officials announced that Bauerfield International Airport is expected to remain closed until at least Saturday, complicating the workers’ return home amidst the chaos.
The situation mirrors that of their colleagues trying to reach Vanuatu from Australia, as Australian airlines have also canceled flights into Port Vila. Over 80 workers are currently staying at the Grand Melanesian Hotel in Nadi, where they are attempting to sort out accommodations as they await the resumption of flights.
One of the workers, Danson Kirk, recounted a distressing phone call he had with his wife, who was preparing to return home when the earthquake struck. Initially worried for her safety when communications went down, he was relieved to reconnect later that night and learn that his family was unharmed. Emergency response teams from Australia and New Zealand have been deployed to assist with search and rescue operations.
Francis Kelep, another worker stranded in Fiji, shared the emotional burden of not being able to check on his family. Despite their weariness, the workers have been lifting each other’s spirits through music and humor. Kelep emphasized their urgent desire to return home not only to check on their families but also to offer assistance in the recovery efforts.
The community among the workers remains strong, with messages of solidarity echoing the sentiment that, even though they are far from home, their hearts and thoughts are with those affected in Vanuatu.
This situation highlights the resilience of the Vanuatu workers and their commitment to their families and communities back home. Their determination to return and help indicates a hopeful and proactive response to the challenges they face in the wake of disaster.
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