PACMAT Team Lead, Craig Sionetuato, says it has been a humbling experience for the team. 

"The impact of the cyclones was evident when we arrived on Futuna and Aniwa, with many people presenting ENT, skin, musculoskeletal and dental issues, as well as needing some mental health support. 

"Working together with VANMAT, we were able to provide mental health checks, medical checks and group psycho-education sessions to 207 individuals in Futuna, and 167 individuals in Aniwa." 

Sionetuato acknowledges that the cyclone response has been a collective effort.  

"We acknowledge the great work that VANMAT and other emergency response teams have already provided to affected communities, many of whom have travelled aboard the HELPR-1 response vessel." 

"Our PACMAT team have been met with gratitude by local communities and it's been fulfilling for the team to connect with people and provide that support." 

PMA CEO, Debbie Sorensen, reiterates the strong relationship PMA has forged over the years with colleagues in Vanuatu. 

"When Cyclone Pam hit Vanuatu in 2015, they asked for our help and we immediately sent a PACMAT team to support their response.  

"When they called on us this year, we answered without hesitation. This is who we are as Pacific people, and we are grateful that through our long standing relationships, we're able to work together to serve our communities." 

The PACMAT Vanuatu mission, supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), will wrap up this week with the team due to arrive back in New Zealand this Wednesday.