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The pricetag for cleaning up and repairing damage from flooding and slips across Te Tauihu o Te Waka-a-Māui - the top of the South Island - is yet to be known, but the government will discuss additional support through mayoral and rural relief funds at today's cabinet meeting.
The prime minister Jacinda Ardern was in Nelson overnight visiting affected areas.
Officials say some damage assessments of homes and roads still have not taken place - the ground is too wet, and in some places slopes are still moving.
Ms Ardern says Aotearoa needs to focus on making sure communities are safe as the likelihood of extreme weather events grows.
RNZ's reporter in Nelson, Adam Burns, spoke to Māni Dunlop.