It's time to Raise the Roof to help victims of quake disasters

The dust had barely settled in Christchurch, when an even greater tragedy hit Japan. Both nations are known for their 'we will not be beaten' approach - in life and on the rugby pitch.

In New Zealand, despair among its 4.3 million people, soon gave way to 'pitching up' - the Kiwi term for doing all you can to help in any situation.

And Hong Kong will be pitching up during Sevens week, with 2,000 people expected to attend the Raise The Roof Christchurch Earthquake Charity Appeal on Thursday night at the Valley Big Top Tent opposite Hong Kong Stadium. It is hoped more than HK$1million will be raised for the New Zealand Red Cross.

'Events like these are an excellent way to raise much needed money but they're equally valuable for us Kiwis abroad in terms of helping us connect with the tragedy and with our countrymen. It's also part of our own grieving process here,' says organiser Grant Beuzeval of Valley RFC. 'Initially, this was a fundraiser for our country, but in the aftermath of the quake in Japan, we're keen to donate 25 per cent of proceeds towards the Japan quake relief effort. We have to stand together. We're working to promote this to the Japanese community also.'

The event is being held in conjunction with the New Zealand Consulate-General, the Chamber of Commerce, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, the New Zealand Society, Tradition Valley RFC and Iron Monger Events. The HKRFU has also backed it.

'We are also hoping some of the New Zealand Sevens players and former rugby greats will come out of the woodwork,' Beuzeval said.

New Zealand consul general Adele Bryant said the response from communities and friends in Hong Kong had been 'heartwarming'.