The town of Ward, south of Blenheim, has been set up as an evacuation centre for tourists and residents who can't stay or don't feel safe staying in their own homes.
It's a community that is pulling together, and 19 people slept at what's being called Chateau Ward Hall.
Red Cross volunteer Rod McCloy says people's houses have been trashed and there's no power or water, so the centre is designed to be a back-up.
The people are resilient and haven't lost their sense of humour, but there's always worry that's it's going to get worse.
Story went to meet one couple who have lost their home and, for now, will be living in a tent.
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