Filipinos based in Rotorua have travelled back to the Philippines to help loved ones suffering from Typhoon Haiyan.
Philippine Club of Rotorua founder Cherry Andrews said some local families had travelled home, with some taking medicine to help.
"They are slowly rebuilding [over there]. Slowly it is improving, you can go and see your loved ones now."
However, she said aid was a huge priority and people still needed to support the disaster relief efforts.
"The problem is food and electricity and medicine and water. These are the four things that they really need."
It has been almost two weeks since Typhoon Haiyan hit the central Philippines, reportedly killing more than 4000 people and leaving 1600 missing. An estimated 320,000 homes were destroyed. Rotorua businesses are getting behind the disaster relief efforts, donating goods for an auction on December 7 at Westbrook School.
"One company donated a trolley load of goods, like a sewing machine and lots of other household goods," Mrs Andrews said about Spotlight Rotorua.
"I cried with joy because I could not believe it. It must have been $1500 worth of goods."
She said other businesses had also generously supported the auction.
She said people could donate to the appeal during three big fundraising drives in Rotorua over the next three Saturdays.
A garage sale will be held tomorrow at 24 Pandora Ave from 7.30am. It is an initiative of a group of Filipino nurses working in Rotorua.
Visitors to Global Fest 2013 at Rotorua International Stadium tomorrow will also be able to give money through donation buckets.
Next Saturday, a collection will be taken in the CBD by volunteers.
Then on Saturday, December 7, a dinner and auction night will be held at Westbrook School hall from 6pm. The dinner costs $23 and the auction is free to attend, starting at 8.30pm.
Please contact Mrs Andrews 021 172 0080, Vincent Villasan (07) 348 8189 or Gloria Avena (07) 348 0262 to reserve your place for the dinner.