Political parties today laid aside their differences and extended their joint sympathies to Tonga following the fatal sinking of an inter-island ferry last night.
At least 33 people remain missing following the sinking of the Princess Ashika near the capital, Nuku'alofa, about 11pm. Fifty-six have been rescued.
Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully said Prime Minister John Key had personally expressed New Zealand's sympathy to Tongan Prime Minister Dr Fred Sevele. Both leaders were attending the Pacific Islands Forum in Cairns.
Mr McCully, who is also in Cairns, said the sinking was doubly tragic for the Pacific region as it followed last month's ferry sinking in Kiribati, which left 33 people dead.
"We are deeply concerned for those still missing (in Tonga)," Mr McCully said.
Labour leader Phil Goff expressed sympathy to those awaiting news of their loved ones.
"This will be an extremely difficult time for those desperate for news of their loved ones," he said.
"New Zealand has an extremely close relationship with Tonga and I support the Government to offer whatever assistance is needed."
Maori Party co-leader Tariana Turia also expressed sympathy.
"Our connections, as tangata whenua, with the peoples of Te Moana Nui a Kiwa, bind us together, in times of happiness and in times of sadness," she said.
"We think of those families with loved ones still missing and we offer our prayers."
