New Zealand is sending an air force Hercules carrying a helicopter to cyclone-damaged Vanuatu.

The Defence Force C-130 Hercules will fly to the Pacific Island nation this week carrying a private helicopter, satellite phones, chainsaw kits, and agricultural equipment, to assist with relief. 

Tropical cyclone Harold caused substantial damage to Vanuatu. The category five storm tore across Vanuatu on Monday night, packing winds in excess of 250kmh. Homes have been destroyed, boats grounded ashore, and trees snapped in half. 

Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters, in a statement announcing the relief effort, said the Hercules plane would also repatriate New Zealanders wanting to leave Vanuatu, prioritising those most at risk. 

"Tropical Cyclone Harold has caused widespread damage to critical infrastructure, buildings and homes, and crops in the northern islands of Vanuatu," Peters said.

"New Zealand always stands ready to assist our Pacific neighbours respond to natural disasters, and we will work with our regional partners and non-government."

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Defence Minister Ron Mark said a Defence Force P-3 Orion had conducted a surveillance flight over Vanuatu on Wednesday, and "the crew have returned with imagery which will help the Government of Vanuatu deliver aid where it's most needed".

New Zealand would also provide funds to the Vanuatu government for its relief efforts, bringing the total contribution to the country's recovery to $2.5 million.