A television fundraising event in New Zealand has raised US$6,800 to help families of the victims of the Tongan ferry disaster.
More than 70 people are presumed drowned after the Princess Ashika sank, about 90 kilometres northwest of the capital Nuku'alofa, just over three weeks ago.
The two-hour telethon, called Tonga 'Ofa Kihe Vahanoa, screened last night on Auckland's Triangle Stratos television station and featured performances by local Tongan groups and speakers from the Tongan community.
It was backed by Pasifika Broadcasting, Kele'a newspaper, Pacific Media Network and the New Zealand Tongan Society for Political Reform in Tonga.
Event organiser Setita Millar says all proceeds from the fundraiser will go to the families of the victims.
She says it's hoped the same amount can be raised at a fundraising concert to be held on Friday in the Auckland suburb of Onehunga.
