The New Zealand government has launched an appeal to help the people of Christchurch and the Canterbury region affected by the Feb. 22 earthquake.

The embassy has set up links at its website to assist those who want to donate to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal.

Launched by New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, the appeal complements other fundraising activities by the Red Cross and the Salvation Army.

Details can be found at www.christchurchearthquakeappeal.govt.nz.

The embassy explained that the safety of all students, including international students, was one of their priorities.

Parents of international students from Korea should contact the Korean Embassy in New Zealand.

The Korean Embassy’s phone number in Wellington is (64) 4-473-9073 and the Consular Call Centre of the Korean Foreign Ministry can be reached on (02) 3210-0404.

People planning to visit New Zealand can get further advice from the Tourism New Zealand site at www.newzealand.com/earthquake.

For general enquiries, updates on the Christchurch earthquake are being posted on the New Zealand Ministry of Civil Defense and Emergency Management website at www.mcdem.govt.nz

The Korea government contributed 1,000 sheets of reinforced plastic, more than 1,000 collapsible 10-litre plastic jerry cans, 200 small tents, more than 1,000 blankets, and up to 50 power generators.

A volunteer team was also sent to support the Korean communities in the region.

For more information, visit the embassy’s site at www.nzembassy.com/korea.