Tsunami relief efforts continue

Inspecting: From left, Cr Peseta Sam Lotu-liga, La'auli Michael Jones and Minister of Defence Hon. Dr. Wayne Mapp speak to Commander Jim Gilmour of HMNZS CANTEBURY before supplies are shipped to Samoa. Photo: Getty Images.

From City Scene, published on 18 October, 2009.

Fundraising for the tsunami relief efforts is continuing across Auckland, and on Monday, 19 October, top Kiwi musicians will perform at the I Love the Islands Samoa relief concert at Vector Arena.

With all proceeds going to the Samoan Government, the event, featuring Neil and Tim Finn, Bic Runga, Scribe and many more, is expected to be a fantastic show.

Red Cross donation boxes are still available at the front offices of the Auckland City Council's Civic Building (Greys Avenue), Auckland City Environments building (35 Graham Street) and at every Auckland City Council library.

You can also make an automatic donation of $20 to the Samoan Tsunami 2009 Appeal by calling 0900 75 633.

Auckland City Councillor, Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, encourages Auckland city residents to attend the concert or donate whatever they could afford. "Every dollar counts," says Mr Peseta Lotu-Iiga.

"Donations provide a lifeline for a lot of the supplies and critical materials needed to assist with rebuilding."

Mr Peseta Lotu-Iiga, whose relatives were affected by the tragic events, says the ordeal has been a great shock to him.

"As soon as I found out I called my parents to find out if anyone had been hurt or injured. Fortunately, they got out alive. However it does not diminish the sadness that I share with many who have lost loved ones in Samoa and Tonga."

A memorial service was held last weekend at Waitakere Trusts Stadium, which saw over 2000 attend - including the Prime Minister, Mayor of Auckland city, and Mr Peseta Lotu-Iiga.

For more information visit Samoa Tsunami 2009 Appeal or New Zealand Red Cross. See I Love the Islands Samoa relief concert for more information and tickets.