Donations flow for Tonga relief

Marlborough Boy’s College students have donated more than 600 items of food and about $1500 for relief in Tonga.

The island nation of Tonga was devastated by the eruption of submarine volcano Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha'apai in December, which caused widespread damage.

Aid from schools across the region has been graciously welcomed by the Marlborough Tongan community.

Marlborough Tongan community chairman Ika Faa’oa says he is enormously proud of all the help and donations from Marlborough Boys’ College, primary schools and Marlborough Girls’ College.

“Representing the Marlborough Tongan community, we give thanks to all the schools of Marlborough that will enable us to help our families in Tonga,” Ika says.

“We pray that the Lord will bless them for their helping hands and the things they have given us.”

The college community raised $1516 from their week-long appeal, mufti day, Givealittle and a Tasman Mako jersey auction.

Students also gave about 650 food items that will be shipped to Tonga by the Marlborough Tongan community.

Marlborough Boys’ College head prefect Liam Keegan says he’s happy with their effort, especially amidst Covid restrictions.

“One year group was away for the mufti day, doing online learning, so we had to tweak our Mitchell Sports prize draw to make sure it was fair for everyone,” Liam says.

The submarine volcano and subsequent tsunami severely damaged or destroyed food crops, homes, infrastructure, communications, and livelihoods causing widespread food shortages and contaminated water supplies.

A container organised by the Marlborough Tongan community is expected to arrive at Riverlands estate this weekend.

“Thank you all for the donation. We appreciate your love that you have shown us. Our people in the islands will be proud of us,” Ika says.

Donations at the Marlborough 2 Tonga Givealittle page are still be accepted at https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/marlborough-to-tonga-tsunami-relief-fund