Muscat – Oman has expressed its sympathy with New Zealand as Cyclone Gabrielle caused havoc in the northern parts of the country.

A statement issued by the Foreign Ministry said, ‘The Sultanate of Oman expresses its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims and to the government and people of New Zealand, and wished the injured a speedy recovery.’

New Zealand officials reported that at least four people, including a child, have died in the devastation of the cyclone, which has caused significant flooding and landslides across the North Island.

The cyclone has moved away from New Zealand but about 10,500 people were still displaced on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins on Wednesday evening said there were also several people missing for whom the police do hold grave concerns.