Red Cross believes it will be responding to earthquake-related issues in north Canterbury for years to come.
Early assessments in the region have identified a range of issues related to property damage and businesses, but it's the psychological impact that's expected to last.
Red Cross secretary-general Tony Payne says even strong communities don't have to go it alone
"We think the initial response phase has got a few more weeks to go, then from there we'll be moving into those early recovery programmes, which are about helping communities decide what's important."
Ongoing efforts in Christchurch suggest it'll be a long road to recovery for north Canterbury and Wellington, which was also affected by last week's magnitude 7.8 shake and its aftershocks.
"Recovery is still happening in Christchurch, and they're six years down the track," says Mr Payne.
"It's a marathon, not a sprint. Even though the numbers affected are much smaller, it's very easy to see the disruption to lives and businesses goes very deep."
Property damage, psychosocial needs, lack of water and working sewerage systems and the future of businesses in the area are still posing serious concern.
Mr Payne says many communities will never be the same, and the impact will be deeply felt by children.
"This is not just about bricks and mortar - it's also about hearts and minds. We're putting a lot of emphasis on psycho-social support, making sure people are doing the right things to look after themselves mentally and emotionally."
People can donate to Red Cross through their website.
Newshub.