Christchurch, New Zealand, Charity Appeal from Naked Wines

Off to Portugal in the morning, for a few days of extensive tasting, eating, exploring and enjoyment, but before I have to bribe a pal to transport me through the M25 rush hour a little missive from the people at Naked Wines. Please don't ignore as this is for all those in earthquake revenged New Zealand -

Online wine retailer Naked Wines has teamed up with New Zealand Winegrowers to raise money for for the Christchurch Earthquake appeal, following the devastation caused on 22nd February.

As well as donating wine themselves, they've launched a joint campaign inviting all New Zealand importers and winemakers to step forward and donate a few cases, to be sold via Naked Wines' Advance Booking platform.

UK wine drinkers will be able to buy a mystery six pack for 49.99, with all proceeds going to the official Christchurch Earthquake charity, set up by the New Zealand government.

David Cox, the European Director of New Zealand Winegrowers said:

"To us Brits it is difficult to imagine the impact that a devastating earthquake like this has on a community and, just as importantly, the aftermath of emotions and logistical disruption that ensues. So we welcome any opportunity to offer some form of help and it augments the significant donation from New Zealand Winegrowers locally in Christchurch. Naked Wines' clarion call to all NZ wineries and importers to donate wine for them to sell to their loyal customers and swell the appeal fund is laudable.

Phil Handford, a Naked Wines producer from Central Otago, explains:

"Six months after the 4 September earthquake when everyone thought things were settling down, this earthquake sneaked up and unleashed its devastating power on people going about their daily lives. It is inspiring to see the strength of the human spirit in such circumstances. The compassion and caring for strangers and people going way beyond what is not normally humanly possible with little thought for their own lives. People have lost eve! rything from their home and possessions to their work place and school, and the best way people can help is to donate..."

Donations are starting to roll in, including cases from UK importers Hatch Mansfield and Lion Nathan, and the first 50 cases sold out in a matter of hours.

To find out more about the campaign, or to make a donation, visit www.nakedwines.com/christchurch or email francesca.krajewski@nakedwines.com

Now the initial case sold out quickly (I missed out too) but Naked Wines is "asking all New Zealand winemakers and importers to donate a few cases of wine, to be sold off via our Advance Booking channel - www.nakedwines.com/christchurch. All proceeds (apart from the tax man's cut) are going to the official Christchurch Earthquake charity "

Put me down for a case NW...