Nepal quake: Govt pledges $1m to aid agencies

Emergency workers and bystanders clear debris while searching for survivors under a collapsed temple in Basantapur Durbar Square following an earthquake. Photo / Getty Images

The Government is promising at least $1 million in aid to help Nepal following the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that rocked the mountainous country.

The $1 million would go to aid agencies active on the ground, Foreign Minister Murray McCully said.

A number of countries, including India and China, had deployed urban search and rescue or response teams.

"New Zealand has offered to assist, but at this stage it is clear that Nepal's close neighbours have been able to deploy teams rapidly," he said.

Labour foreign affairs spokesman David Shearer said the Government was duty-bound to act immediately because of New Zealand's strong links to Nepal through Sir Edmund Hillary's legacy of support.

"This is a tragedy on a massive scale and we cannot sit back and watch from the sidelines."

Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel said Cantabrians understood the trauma Nepalese were now suffering. She said councillors would meet tomorrow to discuss how the city could help.

"Our hearts go out to the people of Nepal - from Christchurch to Kathmandu - we offer our love and support," she said.

"We also know that early financial assistance is what is needed, so we will be co-ordinating a fundraising effort that will enable everyone to contribute."

Australia's Government has pledged A$5 million ($5.14 million) in assistance, and aid organisations from all over the world are rushing to lend a hand.

Caritas Nepal is sending local help from India because Kathmandu Airport is closed, and Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand is appealing for donations to provide relief.

Unicef New Zealand executive director Vivien Maidaborn said the aid organisation was calling for more donations from New Zealanders.

World Vision has 200 staff on the ground undertaking search and rescue operations as the first priority, followed by sourcing potable water, food, household supplies, temporary shelter and protection for children.

It reported hospitals in Kathmandu were in desperate need of wound management kits after an influx of injured patients and emergency shelter sites had opened up.

World Vision New Zealand chief executive Chris Clarke yesterday called on New Zealanders to respond generously to the group's Nepal quake appeal.