Media Release - In the wake of the severe damage caused by Cyclone Gita, Vodafone is this evening (from 5pm) opening up free calling and texts to Tonga for all customers for the next 48 hours.

With Cyclone Gita being labelled the worst storm to hit Tonga in 60 years, Vodafone Consumer Director Matt Williams said it was important for Vodafone to open up the lines.

“With reports of widespread devastation we don’t want people with family and friends in Tonga worrying about how they have fared, so we are making it as easy as possible for them to get in touch.

“From this evening (5pm) all calls and texts to Tonga will be free for the next 48 hours for all Vodafone customers. That includes all our mobile plans such as prepay, as well as business customers, and home phones” Matt said.

Call and TXT credits will be automatically applied to customers’ accounts on the next plan cycle.

“We’d recommend texting for the time being, as this is a lighter load for networks to manage,” Matt said.

The Vodafone Foundation has also moved to set up a Red Cross Pacific Disaster Fund text to donate campaign to get aid to the region as quickly as possible.

Vodafone New Zealand Foundation Manager Lani Evans said the Red Cross Fund will enable all Kiwis to make a difference with much needed relief efforts.

“We wanted to make sure everyone could take part in this important campaign. So irrespective of which mobile provider you are with, simply texting RED CROSS to 4644 will enable an automatic $3 donation to the Red Cross Pacific Disaster Fund.

“The news that is coming out of the Pacific is devastating, and we know that there will be a need for immediate help, as well as future rebuild efforts. By providing money to the Red Cross Kiwis will be able to make sure the right support gets to where it is needed most as quickly as possible,” Lani said.

The Vodafone Foundations’ text to donate Red Cross fundraising campaign will see one hundred percent of all money donated go directly to the disaster response.