Computers help Tongan schools

More than 100 unwanted computers and thousands of old library books are on their way to Tonga to help schools.

The computers have been donated to the EcoCare Pacific Trust by Canterbury University and the Christchurch City Council.

The council has also donated more than 4000 second-hand library books.

The trust was set up by a group of friends after a visit to Tonga in 2004. The group, which included Canterbury University researcher Russell Taylor, was struck by issues which had a negative impact on health, education and the environment in the Pacific Island nation. On their return to New Zealand, they set up the trust to develop links between New Zealand and Tonga.

Last year, they sent 104 old computers from the university.

This time, more than 100 computers, 12 printers along with paper and some digital cameras will be shipped.

The shipment will also contain hospital beds, trolleys and sheets donated by St George's Hospital in Christchurch, Nelson Hospital and the Waitemata District Health Board in Auckland.