The tremendous outpouring of support from common New Zealanders towards all those affected by the devastating earthquake in Christchurch brings to mind the words of Gandalf concerning Hobbits during the Long Winter:

“They were very hard put to it then: one of the worst pinches they have been in… but that was the time to see their courage, and their pity one for another.”

It’s times like these when we are called to put aside all differences, stand together as one, and let our true qualities shine through. Sir Peter Jackson is no exception. The Hollywood Reporter reports today that Jackson and the rest of the Hobbit production have stepped up to offer any practical assistance they can to their fellow New Zealanders and others affected by the tragedy. In a statement to the Hollywood Reporter, Jackson said:

“Everyone involved in the production of The Hobbit is shocked and saddened by the earthquake and it’s devastating aftermath. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Christchurch and all those affected by this terrible tragedy.”

As reported on TheOneRing.net earlier today, you too can help no matter where you are; simply follow this link. Do keep the affected families in your thoughts and prayers.

TheOneRing.net is intimately tied to our friends in New Zealand. With the loss of life, injuries and damaged caused by the recent earthquake, we are all very concerned for our brothers and sisters. While you may be thousands of miles away, you can help. Here is a listing of charitable entities helping in the recovery efforts. We understand this is a tough economic time for many, but if you can, please support them.

If you are unable to donate, please send your well wishing and prayers for those affected by this latest tragedy. Thanks to Ringer Beowulf for posting this link list in a previous thread comments.

SYDNEY — New Zealand is reeling after a second massive earthquake in five months hit the south island city of Christchurch Tuesday, killing at least 65 people and causing widespread destruction in the city’s central business district. New Zealand prime minister John Key described the quake as “New Zealand’s darkest day.” Film New Zealand and the New Zealand Film Commission, however, have told The Hollywood Reporter that no film or TV productions have been impacted. Production on The Hobbit, which is due to start March 21, appears to be unaffected immediately by the Christchurch quake. The Hobbit is being made in Wellington, situated on the North Island of NZ, while Christchurch is on the South Island, a seven-hour ferry ride and drive from Wellington, or less than an hour by air. More..

WELLINGTON, New Zealand – A strong, 6.3-magnitude earthquake rocked the southern New Zealand city of Christchurch on Tuesday, seriously injuring people and damaging buildings throughout the city. Police said there were reports of multiple fatalities, but Prime Minister John Key told Parliament details were still too shaky for those reports to be confirmed. Live video footage showed parts of buildings collapsed into the streets, which were strewn with bricks and shattered concrete. Sidewalks and roads were cracked and split, and hundreds of dazed, screaming and crying residents wandered through the streets as sirens blared throughout the city. More..