http://www.redcross.org.nz/
11.30am, 8 July 2005
New Zealand Red Cross takes almost 1000 calls
The New Zealand Red Cross emergency call centre has taken close to 1000 calls this morning from people in New Zealand
concerned about relatives and friends believed to be in London.
Red Cross staff and volunteers have been manning the New Zealand Red Cross emergency call centre since it opened at 7am
to assist the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade which with inquiries.
New Zealand Red Cross Director General Andrew Weeks says about 200 calls an hour are being taken.
"Most are from relatives who have been unable to contact loved ones this morning. Our volunteers are taking details to
pass to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade which will get back to families as it receives more information from
overseas," Mr Weeks says.
"The call centre has been able to offer a great deal of comfort to families who are understandably concerned. Many of
the volunteers in the call centre have friends and family in London themselves."
ENDS