Communities hit by Tropical Cyclone Winston are getting a little help from the Highlanders.

During a recent home game, the rugby team stationed buckets throughout the stadium to fundraise for Red Cross’ work in Fiji, after the island nation was slammed by Tropical Cyclone Winston.

Tropical Cyclone Winston, the worst in Fiji’s history, affected 350,000 people – almost half of Fiji’s population. More than 30,000 homes were damaged or destroyed when it made landfall in February.

The cyclone’s impact was especially felt by Highlanders’ wingers Waisake Naholo and Patrick Osborne, who are both originally from Fiji. Although their families live in areas that were not seriously affected by the storm, Patrick has extended family in a village where most of the houses were destroyed. 

Waisake says he is grateful and thankful for people generously giving to help.

“A little donation here in New Zealand would make a big difference in Fiji.” 

The Highlanders raised $5000 for the Tropical Cyclone Winston response.

Red Cross Southern Humanitarian Services Manager Sue Price says the team’s efforts will help those who need it most by supporting Red Cross’ recovery and response work still underway in communities across Fiji.

Red Cross has reached more than 63,000 people in Fiji with emergency aid, but more help is needed. Make a difference and donate today.