A New Zealand Air Force Hercules aircraft left Auckland on Sunday morning as the Government prepared for the possible evacuation of New Zealanders from the Middle East.
Defence Minister Judith Collins spoke at Whenuapai Airbase in Auckland and said the aircraft was part of careful planning in case people need to be brought home quickly.
Collins explained that another Hercules aircraft, which is currently in South Korea, will also move closer to the Middle East. The Government says the situation in the region is dangerous and complicated, so officials are getting ready for many possible outcomes.
Members of the New Zealand Defence Force have been preparing aircraft and crews in case an evacuation is needed. Collins said the mission could last several weeks if it goes ahead.
Officials have also contacted New Zealanders living in countries such as Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. They asked people about their current plans and safety through the SafeTravel system.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters said events in the region are changing quickly. He said the Government’s main goal is to help New Zealanders stay safe.
No decision has yet been made about whether an evacuation will happen. However, the Government wants to be ready to act quickly if the situation becomes more dangerous.
An Air Force commander said the C-130 Hercules aircraft is very flexible and can handle many kinds of missions. These aircraft have been used before during emergencies overseas and during disasters at home, such as Cyclone Gabrielle.
