Oprah Winfrey has visited an emergency shelter on the fire-ravaged island of Maui to highlight the plight of evacuees.

Hawaii News Now reported that the American TV star said during her visit on Sunday that it is critical that aid gets to residents fast. The TV star is also a part-time Maui resident.

Winfrey, who is also a part-time resident, warned that news crews will eventually leave and the world will move on, but “we’re all still going to be here trying to figure out what is the best way to rebuild…”

“I will be here for the long haul, doing what I can.”

Winfrey spoke outside the War Memorial Gymnasium in Wailuku.

She said she has delivered personal hygiene products, towels and water in recent days.

She has also been talking to people one to one, listening to their stories “and letting people know that they matter”.

Winfrey said the most pressing matter is finding places for people to stay.

Her “biggest concern is having the organisation that’s needed to get the money that people want to send directly to the people”.

She added: “My biggest concern is who’s in charge.”