"I am shocked and saddened by the impact of the volcanic eruption and tsunami in Tonga," she said.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Tonga, as you work together to recover from the damage caused.

"It must be incredibly difficult for those who are unable to contact friends and family while communications are disrupted, and I hope that they will soon be restored."

Her Majesty sent the message to His Majesty Tupou VI, the King of Tonga, after an undersea volcano erupted and triggered a devastating tsunami on Saturday.

At least three people have been killed following the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haʻapai volcano eruption.

The first planes carrying foreign aid arrived in Tonga today and a state of emergency has now been declared.

The United Nations estimates more than 80% of the population of the islands have been badly affected.

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The eruption caused internet and phone lines to go down, leaving the population of the islands virtually uncontactable.

Some telephone connections have been repaired, but there are reports it could take another month for full internet services to resume.