Christchurch telethon breaks $1m mark

The 12-hour global telethon to raise money for earthquake-hit Christchurch has already raised more than $800,000. Photo / Simon Baker

The 12-hour global telethon to raise money for earthquake-hit Christchurch has now collected more than $1 million.

The telethon, exactly three months after February's devastating earthquake, is being broadcast by Maori Television from studios in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland from 9am to 9pm with live crosses to centres in London, Los Angeles and Sydney.

Funds raised by the telethon, Rise Up Christchurch - Te Kotahitanga, will go to the Christchurch earthquake appeal.

Business leaders and celebrities around the world have made donations for the cause.

The latest big name to join the effort was international superstar Usher, who donated a pair of sneakers worn on his OMG tour.

The gift joins that of other singers including Lady Gaga, who donated a limited edition pair of 14-inch high Gucci shoes, and Katy Perry, who donated a signed guitar and a signed bag containing a bottle of her perfume Purr.

Anna Paquin, Neil Finn, Prince Edward, Robyn Malcolm, Almighty Johnsons star Ben Barrington, comedian Mike King, and Benji Marshall have also lent their support.

People can make donations by calling 0800 2 RISEUP, going to the www.riseup.org.nz website or texting RISEUP to 933 to make a $3 donation.

Bids can be placed for items on the telethon's auction website sella.co.nz/riseup

Donations include a year's supply for Tip Top ice cream, a 2010 signed All Blacks jersey, and fashion items from designers Karen Walker and Claire Kingan Jones.

Dairy giant Fonterra contributed $500,000 towards telethon production and administration costs.

- NZPA