The 12-hour global telethon to raise money for earthquake-hit Christchurch made more than $2.5 million in its massive fundraising drive today.
The telethon, exactly three months after February's devastating earthquake, was broadcast by Maori Television from studios in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland from 9am to 9pm with live crosses to centres in London, Los Angeles and Sydney.
Funds raised by the telethon, Rise Up Christchurch - Te Kotahitanga, will go to the Christchurch earthquake appeal.
The final telly at 9pm was $2,561,015.30.
Some of the big donors during the night were dairy giant Fonterra, which gave $1 million and Mainfreight, which handed over $250,000.
Business leaders and celebrities around the world also made donations for the cause.
Some of the famous names to lend their support to the effort were Sir Ian McKellen, Sir Peter Jackson and Usher, who donated a pair of sneakers worn on his OMG tour.
Limited edition Gucci shoes donated by Lady Gaga went for $4300, while a guitar donated and signed by Katy Perry went for $5000.
Anna Paquin, Neil Finn, Prince Edward, Robyn Malcolm, Almighty Johnsons star Ben Barrington, comedian Mike King, and Benji Marshall also lent their support.
While New Zealand comedian Ben Boyce shaved off his trademark dreads to help the cause.
NZPA