Fundraising kicks off for Aitutaki

NEIL DUDDY

RESCUING PARADISE: Sela Apera-Miller, left, and Manika Glassie are working to help the island of Aitutaki, devastated by Cyclone Pat last month.

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When Cyclone Pat hit Aitutaki in the Cook Islands last month 400 families were left in disarray.

Now a team from Manukau have set out to help them.

Sela Apera-Miller and Manika Glassie are part of the Aitutaki Enua Society.

When the cyclone hit, 90 percent of the island was left in devastation and 70 families are now homeless.

The society has asked people on the island what they need most. Now they're ready to put a plan into action. It starts with charity concerts on March 22 and March 23 at Manukau's Pacific Events Centre.

Mrs Apera-Miller says the line-up features high profile and grassroots Cook Islanders and will be a mixture of singers, entertainers and dance groups.

Performers on the night include King Kapisi, Che Fu, Brother Love, Tiki Taane and T'Angelo.

The society is sending three shipping containers with food, water and building materials to Aitutaki and is also planning more fundraisers on Anzac Day and over Easter weekend.

"We're making a pledge to the kindness of New Zealanders," Mrs Apera-Miller says.

"We know it's tough times but that's the beauty of New Zealand – we are so generous."

The assistance so far has been overwhelming, she says.

People have driven up from Wellington with a carload of supplies to donate and a school from Christchurch donated cans of food.

"Things like that are just heartwarming."

Mr Glassie says they've even had emails from people overseas who have been to Aitutaki and want to help.

The fundraising is a long-term project, he says.

The society won't be going over to help rebuild homes – its job is to set a foundation of money, food and building materials for the island.

"That's our priority, that's what's been asked of us from Aitutaki," Mr Glassie says.

Tickets for the Aitutaki concerts are available from Ticket Direct or door sales on the night. Adults cost $20, children $10 and under 5s are free. To donate non-perishable food or building material call 2671404.

Cash donations can be made at any ASB Bank branch or online at aitutakienuacyclonepatlrelieffund.org.

- © Fairfax NZ News