$500,000 boost for quake-hit businesses

Energy and Resources Minister Gerry Brownlee. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Canterbury businesses will get a boost with a government package worth more than $500,000 set up to help them following the earthquake there in September.

Economic Development Minister Gerry Brownlee said the $500,000 package would include funding for two full-time and one part-time business recovery co-ordinators in Christchurch and Kaiapoi, $100,000 funding for promotional and marketing campaigns and further support for business mentors.

"The government is funding expertise, mentoring and advice that will help businesses adapt to the conditions and problems caused by earthquake damage."

That included having to relocate and reduced customer numbers, he said.

The funding for promotional activities was particularly in the lead up to Christmas and the tourist season, Mr Brownlee said.

- NZPA