The first payments of publicly donated money have been given to victims and families of the Christchurch terror attack. 

Families of the deceased are eligible for an initial emergency payment of $15,000, and each person admitted to the hospital is entitled to $5000.

Victim Support Chief Executive, Kevin Tso, told Mike Hosking additional funding can also be approved to meet expenses such as travel. 

He said they are distributing money has quickly as possible, but it's also important for people to contact Victim Support if they need funds.

"We want to urge all the families who have lost a loved one to call us immediately if they haven't already."

Tso said there are a few potential issues because a number of the widows don't have bank accounts. However, he said his team is aware of any potential issues and capable of dealing with them.

"What we have done is ensured that all our team are fully conversant with the religious and cultural laws and values of the community."

He said they aren't just handing out money, they are also helping support the families in a number of different ways.

"The money is only one aspect of it. People have all sorts of needs, they want to bring their loved ones from overseas to the funeral, or they want to repatriate their loved one to their country of origin."

"So all sorts o needs are being met including paying their bills, feeding themselves and housing themselves."

Tso said they are working with the police and a number of other agency to make sure they are best helping the people who need it.