Donations pouring in for flood victims

Lower North Island people are welcoming a new flood - this one of donations to help them pick up the pieces after two weeks of heavy rain.

More than $3.5 million has been given to flood relief funds, with businesses, individuals and the Government contributing, Manawatu-Wanganui Civil Defence Emergency Management Group said.

Yesterday's figures were:

* The Red Cross: More than $360,000. Call 0900 33 200 to donate $20.

* Horowhenua District Council Flood Relief Fund: $120,350. Donations can be dropped at the Levin council building.

* Manawatu Wanganui Regional Relief Fund run by the Palmerston North City Council: About $480,000. Call BNZ at 0900 922 922 to donate $20.

* Wanganui Mayoral Disaster Fund: $84,138. Donations can be posted or dropped in to the Wanganui District Council Building.

* Rangitikei Mayoral Flood Relief Fund: $148,000. Donations can be made at the ANZ, left at the Marton offices of the Rangitikei District Council, or posted to Private Bag 1102, Marton.

* Feilding and District Relief Fund: $380,000. Take donations to any BNZ, the Manawatu District Council or the Feilding Information Centre.

* Radioworks Flood Relief Fund: $60,000, as of last Thursday. To donate $20 call 0900 922 922.

* The 0800 00 Relief hot-line number which was taking donations of goods has closed due to lack of storage space.

* Taumarunui New World has a drop box.

* Donations for the Tararua District Council Mayoral Relief Fund can be made by calling 06 374-4080.

* Just over $2 million was raised by Holmes on TV One.

- NZPA