The state of emergency in the Nelson area could be in place through Christmas.
More than 100 houses in the flood-hit region have been red-stickered and more than 30 evacuated.
The state of emergency had been due to be lifted today but regional Civil Defence group controller Jim Frater told Radio New Zealand that if it had been, the red sticker notices would have no effect.
Officials did not anticipate further evacuations.
Representatives from Work and Income, the Earthquake Commission, Inland Revenue and the Salvation Army will be available to talk to affected people at recovery assistance centres due to open this morning.
People who have left their houses must register their whereabouts with one of these centres so they can be contacted about the status of their properties.
A fund to support residents who have been worst affected by flooding and slips has been established.
* Mayoral Relief Trust Fund Tasman/Nelson
* ASB account: 12-3158-0176990-00
