Tonga, one of the Pacific's poorest nations, has raised a massive T$833,867 (NZ$705,000) for the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Fund.

Raised in a single Saturday radio-thon, it is the equivalent of every Tongan giving T$8.33. If every New Zealander gave the same amount, the Earthquake Fund would get NZ$31 million.

The Tongan Government said in a statement that "due to numerous complaints from the public" that they did not have time to get their donations in another radio-thon will be held on Thursday.

"We are very grateful to the members of the public for their generous donations that we have received so far," chair of the coordinating committee Busby Kautoke said.

"We are particularly indebted to the Ministry of Education for the fund -raising that was held by schools."

He said they were following up pledges that were made via telephone by church congregations, kava clubs, government departments, as well letters of appeal that were sent to business houses.

New Zealand currently gives Tonga NZ$16 million a year in aid.