A state of emergency in Rotorua lifted on Sunday, but it will be months before the town gets back on its feet.
Multiple properties suffered floodwater damage during a deluge that struck just over a week ago. At least 20 houses were flooded, most of which were expected to be declared uninhabitable.
The rain also opened up a massive 200-metre-long sinkhole on a farm near Tumunui, 17 kilometres outside the city.
- Rotorua residents were trapped in trees, tractors in deluge
- Huge 200m long, 20m deep sinkhole opens up on Rotorua farm
Civil Defence controller Stavros Michael says there won't be a quick fix for last week's damage.
"We want to send a message to people to continue to be engaged with us. We have a team dedicated for their needs for the foreseeable future.
"It may take a few months to get there. The council is not walking away from supporting its people."
Building inspections will continue until the end of the week.
Newshub.