Auckland, New Zealand: The Samoa Tsunami 2009 Appeal is sending its first shipment of tsunami relief to Samoa, just days after opening collection centres in Auckland.
 
“New Zealanders have again responded very generously to an appeal for help,” said Michael Jones, a member of the Samoa Tsunami 2009 Appeal.
 
“The donations are very gratefully received. We will work with partners in Samoa to ensure the materials reach those who are most in need.”
 
Twelve container loads of materials were donated by members of the public and a multiple of donors from the business community. The shipment leaves Saturday morning and arrives in Apia on Tuesday next week (13 October).
 
It has been a huge logistics exercise made easier by many community volunteers at both depots at south and west Auckland, plus free services from shipping and trucking companies across Auckland.
 
The sailing will be farewelled tomorrow morning (Saturday 10th) from Devonport wharf.
 
The Samoa Tsunami 2009 Appeal is continuing to receive donations at two collection centres in Henderson and Mangere.
 
Further shipments are planned in future.
 
Contacts:
 
Laauli Michael Jones (021 557 750)
Masuisui JR Pereira (021 2029 160)
Magila Annandale, MPIA (027 272 2656).
 
The office for the Samoa Tsunami 2009 Appeal is located at the Ground Floor, Samoa House, 283 Karangahape Road, Auckland
Central.  Tel: 09 368 9003 and the website address is www.samoatsunami2009appeal.org
 
Call 0900 75 633 in New Zealand to make a $20.00 telephone donation to the people of Samoa.