Donations reach $10m

World Vision has added a text message campaign to its tsunami relief appeal as donations given by New Zealanders hit the $10 million mark.

Telecom and Vodafone subscribers can make a $3 donation by texting DONATE to 883.

The World Vision campaign has raised $2 million so far, with the Red Cross total at $5 million.

The appeal by APN News and Media, the publisher of the New Zealand Herald, had yesterday raised $1,906,540. Personal donations created most of the fund, and there had also been larger donations from companies.

The Christian Children's Fund has said raised awareness of long-term needs of survivors had resulted in 250 New Zealand families sponsoring children. More than 20,000 New Zealanders were now committed to CCF's $450-a-year sponsorships.

Christian World Service sent $160,000 of New Zealanders' donations to aid agency partners in India and Sri Lanka. Its Sri Lankan partners will use the cash for rebuilding homes and aid specifically requested by villagers.