Donations to the Canterbury earthquake appeal have reached $14.7 million, but just over $2 million has been paid out in grants.
Red Cross national programmes manager David Neal says there have been fewer applications for grants than expected.
Mr Neal says the Red Cross is doing letterbox drops and advertising to make people aware they may be eligible for help.
He says some people may want to delay applying, due to uncertainty over whether particular streets and sections will be built on again.
Mr Neal says there are three emergency or hardship grants and others grants may be considered, while the Chamber of Commerce has mentioned help for business people.
He warns the fund will have to last a long time, as the effects of the earthquake will be ongoing.
