Defence Force staff helping survivors of the quake and tsunami in Indonesia have been surprised at the extent of the destruction.

More than 10 tonnes of aid has been flown into the city of Palu, and around 120 displaced people have been flown out.

Air Force Flight Lieutenant Dave Natapu says the destruction was worse than he had anticipated.

The Hercules and a 14-member Defence Force detachment will continue to help transport aid to Palu and evacuate displaced people.