Addressing the New Zealand College of Mental Health Nurses at their annual conference in her role as college patron, Dame Margaret suggested looking after the people of Christchurch was something the people of New Zealand had to "embrace".
While the Government had done a good job of looking after vulnerable people, some on low pay were "really suffering" as they had no discretionary income to be able to get away for a break with their children.
Dame Margaret, who began her career as a psychiatric nurse, told the conference, attended by more than 300 people, their skills would be needed in Christchurch for years and they would need to be flexible in their approach to the community.
"I see a tremendous opportunity there for you to demonstrate what you have to give."
In her role as Environment Canterbury chairwoman Dame Margaret has been spending time working in Christchurch.
She said she had observed a "new level of despair" in the city since the June 13 earthquake.
Dame Margaret was in the city for that earthquake and found it "absolutely terrifying", telling the audience she thought she was going to be killed.
