Power has been restored to 85% of Christchurch city, but an estimated 55,000 properties still don't have running water.
Despite the high electricity connection rate, Mayor Bob Parker says people should use power - like water - sparingly.
Water has been restored to 65% of Christchurch but even where it's back on, Mr Parker says, people must continue to treat water from pipes and systems as contaminated and boil it.
He has also warned residents it will be some time before wastewater services are restored across the city.
There are now 800 portaloos in the city, with another 250 expected to arrive shortly. Another 1000 have been ordered from Australia.
The number for those needing portaloos is 03 941 8999.
