The Canterbury Chamber of Commerce says employees should put personal safety first before travelling into work on Monday.
Chief executive Peter Townsend says the earthquake was a horrific experience and the damage is enormous.
But he says the business community is resilient and will rebound quickly.
Mr Townsend says he anticipates problems for businesses who may try to open on Monday morning and staff should contact their employers first before travelling to work.
He says if their workplace is unsafe or there are problems getting into work people should play it safe and stay home.
