Readers dig deep for tsunami victims

Readers have donated more than $950,000 for the Red Cross Tsunami Appeal.

APN, which owns the Weekend Herald, other newspapers, magazines and the TRN radio stations, has collected money to help those affected by the Boxing Day tsunami.

Now the money will be donated to the New Zealand Red Cross, to help rebuild hospitals and schools, for medical supplies, to reinstate vital services such as water and help families become self-sufficient again.

The appeal was kick-started with a donation of $50,000 from APN New Zealand. Then New Zealanders donated their dollars through an 0900 telephone number and collection boxes at BP service stations. Giving peaked on New Year's Day, when more than 4000 people phoned in to contribute more than $170,000.

New Zealand Red Cross president Lady Jocelyn Keith says the organisation is moving into a reconstruction phase, helping people back into homes and jobs.

"New Zealanders can be proud of their efforts. This is a significant contribution that will make a difference in helping these people as they rebuild their lives. We are extremely grateful to all those involved."

APN National Publishing CEO Ken Steinke says the success of the appeal is a reminder of the generous spirit of New Zealanders.

"We have the capacity to reach a large number of people throughout the country and provide them with an accessible way to help.

"To raise close to a million dollars is a great result."