The Pacific island nation of Tonga has welcomed its first international relief supplies since being hit by a huge undersea volcanic eruption and tsunami last Saturday.

Aircraft carrying aid supplies from Australia and New Zealand arrived on Thursday at the airport on Tongatapu Island, where the capital Nuku'alofa is located.

The two neighboring countries sent military planes after the airport's runway was cleared of volcanic ash. The aircraft brought drinking water, communications equipment and other relief goods.

The Australian military has released a photo that shows Tonga's Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku visiting the airport.

Navy vessels sent by New Zealand carrying aid personnel and helicopters are also expected to arrive on Thursday. Japan is sending drinking water and equipment to remove volcanic ash.

Authorities in Tonga say the eruption has left three people dead and many others injured.

Homes were reportedly destroyed on smaller islands. Volcanic ash that covered homes, roads and cars is hampering people's lives and polluting water.