Vanuatu: 7.3 earthquake

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake affected the Vanuatu Islands at 0147 UTC on Tuesday 17 December. A tsunami alert was issued and later withdrawn.

New Zealanders in Vanuatu are advised to follow the advice of local authorities at all times, including any evacuation orders. 

Aftershocks can happen after large earthquakes. If you hear a tsunami warning siren or experience a long or strong tremor, move to higher ground and follow the instructions of local authorities. Read more advice on our natural disasters page.

We are aware that there are communication outages in Vanuatu at present. This may make it difficult for you to stay connected with your whānau and friends in Vanuatu until communication lines are reestablished.

Repatriation flight

The New Zealand Government operated a repatriation flight on Thursday 19 December to bring New Zealanders in Vanuatu home.

It is unclear when the airport will open for further commercial flights. Damage to airport facilities has been reported. If you are in Vanuatu and have indicated a wish to depart, we will be back in touch with you directly if there are further NZDF operated flights.

If you have not already heard from us and wish to depart, please make contact with us by calling +64 99 20 20 20 or emailing [email protected].

We encourage all New Zealanders in Vanuatu to register their travel on SafeTravel when communications allow. Please keep your family and friends in New Zealand informed of your safety and wellbeing when you are able to, and pass this message on to any New Zealanders who may not be registered on SafeTravel.

New Zealanders in Vanuatu who require urgent consular assistance can contact the 24/7 consular emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20.