25 February 2011
InternetNZ (Internet New Zealand Inc) has today donated $50,000 to the New Zealand Red Cross in support of those affected by the Christchurch Earthquake. This is one step the organisation has taken, and there will be further action.

'It is clear that cash is needed right now and an immediate donation is one of the best ways to help, backing those organisations that are there on the ground. We encourage all organisations able to assist in this way to do so," says Chief Executive Vikram Kumar.

"In the weeks and months coming there will be a huge effort to get Christchurch and the region back on its feet. We expect to make a much more substantial contribution and work with other organisations to ensure effectiveness."

Beyond cash, individual InternetNZ members and the wider ICT community have been heavily involved in initiatives and activities using the Web, social media and information technology.

"It's incredible to see the talent and experience being brought to bear in ways that people know how, ensuring the websites that help coordinate assistance are functioning, implementing new tools that collect and verify useful information, offers of server and bandwidth capacity and office space," says Kumar.

"It shows the power of the Internet and IT for the public good and how important it is to protect and enhance these capabilities."

For further comment contact:
Vikram Kumar
Chief Executive
InternetNZ

ENDS

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