There's been a public outpouring of generosity for Hamilton zoo keeper Samantha Kudeweh.

A give-a-little page set up for the mother-of-two has so-far drummed up over $26,000 in donations since her tragic death nearly two weeks ago.

Friend Denise Calver said the money will go into a trust to help her children, aged three and nine, and husband Richard get through.

"Just to make life a little bit easier for Richard, because how do you deal with what's happened? He is being amazingly positive because he knows he's got to look after the kids."

The money raised will be used to fund the children's future education needs, and ensure their physical and emotional well being in the year's ahead.

Calver said while it cannot take away the pain, it can hopefully make their lives a little easier.

Donations can still be made via the give-a-little website.