Social Development Minister Paula Bennett is urging people in Christchurch to apply for emergency welfare payments.
Ms Bennett says many people won't have a job to go to because their building has been destroyed by the earthquake.
She says Work and Income has provided $2.2 million in grants, with the average payment about $165.
Ms Bennett warns it will be difficult for many people to get work in Christchurch for a long time, and they don't have to be beneficiaries to get the payments.
Mobile offices
Mobile Work and Income support services operated in Christchurch suburbs on Sunday.
Ms Bennett says the mobile units were started to reach as many people as possible quickly.
She says in some circumstances the emergency welfare payment can be accessed over the phone by calling 0800 779 997.
