New Zealanders are booking Airbnb accommodation in Ukraine in a bid to support those in the war torn country.
Photo: 123RF
A woman from Tauranga said she made a booking for a place in her price range, at a rental that was run by a person rather than a company.
She sent a message to say she was not going to use the booking and to explain why and received a heartwarming message in return.
"I was shocked when I saw your booking! Our apartment is located next to the railway station and the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, this area was fired with cruise missiles tonight!" it read.
The host said no-one was hurt as there had been a curfew at the time.
"When I saw your booking, I immediately thought that you were in trouble in Kyiv and thought how to help you!"
The host's family were spending most of their time in a shelter and were thankful for the support.
"Your act is very important for us! I am grateful to you for your help, for these kind words! I wish you all the best!"
Airbnb's New Zealand and Australia country manager Susan Wheeldon said the company was humbled by the generosity of its community during the crisis.
It was temporarily waiving guest and host fees on bookings in Ukraine.
Anyone interested in getting involved could go to airbnb.org/help-ukraine, and the initiative to provide housing to refugees fleeing Ukraine, by becoming a host or donating.
Since the initiative was launched, more than 261,000 visitors had accessed the page.
Meanwhile, Airbnb chief executive Brian Chesky has tweeted that the company is suspending all its operations in Russia and Belarus.