Revenue Minister Peter Dunne says the Inland Revenue Department will take the impact of the earthquake into account when dealing with the tax matters of affected individuals and businesses.
Mr Dunne says tax will be the last thing on people's minds if they have been affected by the quake, and they should not worry if they cannot meet a particular tax filing date.
He says the department has assured him it will take a realistic and flexible approach.
For instance, it will be able to waive penalties and interest if returns cannot be filed or payments cannot be made because of the earthquake.
Mr Dunne has also assured people that all payments they are expecting from Inland Revenue, such as Working for Families tax credits, will be made as usual.
