One of the world's most famous opera singers has handed over a cheque of $301,588 for the Christchurch rebuild.
The money comes from a concert Spanish tenor Placido Domingo will give in the city on Thursday night, which is a fund-raiser for the Court Theatre and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra.
Mr Domingo says he lost four members of his family in the 1985 Mexico earthquake and understands the tremendous loss and heartache the people of Christchurch are feeling.
He says he wishes he could be performing here under happier circumstances, but is pleased to be able to help the city.
The directors of the theatre and the orchestra - both of which have suffered in the quakes - say the gesture is something they'll never forget.
The Welsh opera star Katherine Jenkins will also take part in the fundraising concert and has postponed events in Australia to be in Christchurch. The singers will be accompanied by the National Youth Orchestra.