Te Tai Tonga MP Rahui Katene says Christchurch's marae are on standby if they are needed for emergency accommodation in the wake of the earthquake.
Mrs Katene had a quick inspection of the city over the weekend.
She told Waatea News that the authorities have moved quickly to provide for people whose homes were too damaged to stay in, and Maori are ready to play their part.
Just over 200 people spent Sunday night in welfare centres.
Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker told Morning Report that attention is now turning to long term accomodation for those whose houses are unsafe to return to.
