Kaikōura eateries are going to benefit from an influx of road workers over the coming months.
Kaikōura's main street post-earthquake. Photo: RNZ / Joelle Dally
The tourist town has been struggling to make ends meet since last year's earthquake, with massive slips cutting it off from the north.
The 500 workers hired to clear the slips have started arriving in town and will be staying at a temporary work village.
Six local eateries will make packed lunches for them and the choice of nine restaurants for dinner.
Kaikōura's recovery manager, Danny Smith, said the extra business was appreciated.
"All the businesses, specially in the hospitality sector, are really suffering. We're probably sitting at about 25 to 30 percent of what they normally do."
Mr Smith said the temporary village was due to open in two weeks.
Last month the government announced a new $1 million grant programme to help support businesses affected by the Kaikōura earthquake.
Economic Development Minister Simon Bridges said $17m had already been spent helping businesses in the Kaikōura, Hurunui and Marlborough districts since the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake in November, through a business support package.