NZ bushfire donations top $1m

New Zealand donations to the victims of the Victorian bushfires have topped $1 million.

The New Zealand Red Cross today said its appeal fund had reached $579,000.

It said calls to its donations line were so great this morning that its phones were overloaded and further lines had to be added.

When combined with the $500,000 committed by the Government the total figure donated by New Zealanders was more than $1 million.

The Red Cross said it would transfer 100 per cent of its appeal fund to fire victims, without deducting any costs associated with administration or banking fees.

People can make a donation to the Red Cross fund through its website www.redcross.org.nz, by calling 0900 33 200.

- NZPA