WELLINGTON, Oct. 14 (Xinhuanet) -- New Zealand is doubling its aid contribution for Pakistan earthquake relief, Aid Minister Marian Hobbs said Friday.

    A further 750,000 NZ dollars (560,000 US dollars) to international relief efforts will take the total contribution to 1.5 million NZ dollars (1.1 million US dollars).

    The money is likely to be spent on essential supplies such as tents, blankets and medicines, which Pakistan President Musharraf has requested the aid effort focus on.

    "The seriousness of the situation in Kashmir and the northern regions of Pakistan continues to grow," said Hobbs.

    "New Zealanders have been asked to dig into their pockets many times this year but our generous spirit continues to come through," said Hobbs.

    Hobbs also acknowledged the works of the New Zealand NGO community which has been fundraising since the disaster struck. Enditem