British Bnei Akiva is supporting the movement's international fundraising appeal in aid of the Jewish community of Canterbury, following the devastating earthquake in Christchurch last week.

Bnei Akiva, which has two New Zealand groups, launched the appeal to provide immediate assistance for the 250 Canterbury Hebrew Congregation members.

Some congregants' home were destroyed by the quake, many others lost possessions. The synagogue building suffered structural damage and remains closed.

BA's Jonny Lipczer said: "We believe that it is our Jewish duty to help."