Wellington’s Mayor, Ms Celia Wade-Brown, will visit Hong Kong with a delegation of Wellington-based business persons on 27 July.

In recent months, the Hong Kong Centre for Health Protection has reported a high number of cases of scarlet fever, particularly in children under 10 years of age. The Hong Kong Department of Health advises that scarlet fever presents as fever, sore throat and rash over the trunk and neck that spreads to the limbs. Scarlet fever is spread through contact with nose and throat discharges of infected people. Normal hygiene precautions should be taken, including careful and frequent hand washing. People who suspect they may have scarlet fever should consult a doctor.

Please join the New Zealand Consulate - General, fellow New Zealanders and friends of New Zealand at a memorial service in Hong Kong to re member the victims of the 22 February earthquake and to offer hope for a stronger and brighter future for Christchurch and its people. Let us also reflect on the impact on Japan of its devastating earthquake and tsunami.

Donations

The Prime Minister has launched the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal, a global fundraiser for the recovery effort. Donations can be made at www.christchurchearthquakeappeal.govt.nz. Other appeals are listed on http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/christchurch-quake-appeals-launched-4038581. Please be careful of scams.