Builder delivers aid in person

Queenstown builder Alaistair Saville has returned from the relief effort in Samoa where he helped build homes for families devastated by the tsunami.

Mr Saville travelled to Samoa through Habitat for Humanity to build a resource centre in Lepa.

The charity had called for tradespeople to help build 400 fales in villages and Mr Saville had no hesitation in putting his hand up.

He spent $1000 of his own money to get to the island.

"It was better than giving money, food or clothes. They need help to rebuild their lives. I knew it was going to make a difference and it did," he said.

He and six others arrived in Lepa three weeks after the tsunami hit on September 29.

"The beach was covered in debris. It was total devastation. An 8m wave swept through at 80kmh and there was nothing left."

The people were living in tents and had temporary water supplies.

"People were still in shock. It was quite a humbling thing. The village was completely wiped out. Only the church hall and a few houses were left," he said.

The New Zealanders stayed at the church hall where they were fed and looked after by those who had lost everything.

Mr Saville was responsible for setting up a plant at the resource centre where 400 fale roof frames would be built.

He single-handedly built 100 frames and 28 bathrooms.

He had paid to go back in February with two apprentices to continue the effort.

"I think it will be good experience for them."

Habitat for Humanity is organising 10 tradespeople to travel to Lepa for two weeks at a time.

He recommended others go.

"Go and help using your trade instead of sending money. That way you know your help is getting through and appreciated by people ."

Greg Thompson, of the Queenstown Lions Club, recently hand-delivered $9500 to the Apia Lions Club.

The club had raised the money through its mulled wine sales during the Winter Games.

The Apia Lions Club was going to use the money to buy water containers, pots, tents and mosquito nets for families.

"This would easily rate in my Lions career . . . in terms of emotional satisfaction of a good deed done by the club."