Christchurch Earthquake

'Super-rich' yet to contribute to quake appeal

06:43 am on 10 April 2011

The Christchurch Earthquake Appeal is yet to receive donations from New Zealand's 'super-rich' - but organisers are in discussions with a few individuals.

Stock exchange chief executive Mark Weldon is leading the global fundraiser, which was launched by the Prime Minister shortly after the earthquake on 22 February.

Donations now top $54 million, with the money coming from a wide range of sources - including American philanthropists, school cake stalls and charity events in Shanghai and London.

Mr Weldon says they are talking with a number of New Zealanders who would be considered 'super' wealthy and he hopes more large sums may be received within the next month or so.

He says an advisory board to decide how the money is distributed is set to be announced shortly.