Christchurch earthquake: Hard week earns biscuit workers bonus, day off

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Christchurch biscuit business Cookie Time gave its employees the day off yesterday and $250 each after a harrowing week of aftershocks.

General manager Lincoln Booth said production was down as much as 20 per cent this week because of stress. The factory opened as usual on Monday morning and worked to full capacity until close of business on Thursday afternoon.

Booth said the company still met 98 per cent of its distribution commitments to retailers around the country this week, which he cited as a "phenomenal effort".

He said the factory and the head office in Templeton had suffered minor damage - mainly "cosmetic".

The main issue has been the health and safety of employees, who have been "on edge all week".

"We recognised fatigue was becoming a problem, so we gave everyone the day off."

Kathmandu, another well-known Christchurch-based company, has donated 200 camp beds, 500 foam mats and $30,000 to the Red Cross' earthquake appeal in Christchurch.

Kathmandu's Mark Todd said the company would provide more gear if needed. Two of the company's stores, in Riccarton and on Cashel St, have been closed since last Saturday because of damage. The Tower Junction store reopened on Monday.