The eruption in Tonga has triggered a global response with nearby countries stepping up to assist.
A New Zealand C-130 Hercules is loaded with supplies and ready to go; and the Nuku'alofa airport runway has been cleared of ash.
Both Australia and our country have naval ships headed to Tonga, and China has also offered $100,000 in cash.
Senior lecturer in security studies at Massey University Dr Anna Powles discusses the diplomatic factors at play with Sarah Robson.
