Wellington Tsunami Working Committee

8 October 2009
Media Release

Wellington Tsunami Collection Points Now Set Up

Collection points to accept donations of relief assistance following last week’s tsunami have been set up for communities and public in the Wellington region.

Tsunami Committee Coordinator Fa’amatuainu Tino Pereira is advising that specific targeted items are needed to help rebuild the devastated areas of Samoa.

“At the moment the preferred items for the containers are non-perishable foods, building materials such as nails, clean wood, and also kitchen utensils such as pots and pans to help families rebuild their homes in Samoa,” he said.

“What we don’t need is clothing because there has been enough sent over already.”
He said collection points have been set up in Wellington Central, Porirua and Lower Hutt.

An office and hotline have also been set up at 2 Hassell Road Porirua at the Taeaomanino Trust in Porirua to answer queries and provide advice.

The number is 0508 TSUNAMI (8786264) and the office will be operating daily from 9am to 9pm until further notice. The Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs is providing administrative support.

Mr Pereira is also warning the public to watch out for charity scammers who may be operating.

“For those wanting to make cash donations, please use the Westpac Bank Tsunami Relief Fund, and you can access this fund at any Westpac branch around the country. The funds collected will go directly to the Government of Samoa. “

The Wellington committee has been set up under the guidance of the Samoan Advisory Council Wellington.

Collection points are at:

• Wesley Church, 75 Taranaki Street, CBD

• 111 Castor Crescent, Porirua

• EFKS Church.195-203 Rata Street, Naenae

Regular daily updates on tsunami relief work are available online at:

http://www.mpia.govt.nz/latest-news

ENDS

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