Soldiers to be given emergency shelter

New Zealand Army Territorial soldiers take a well-earned rest break as they clean up in Avonside. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Soldiers who have been sleeping in their armoured vehicles while giving aid to earthquake-hit Christchurch residents are set to be given emergency shelter.

The first of 20 temporary cabins donated to the city by building supplies retailer Placemakers are set to arrive this afternoon.

Mayor Bob Parker wants the first six cabins to be given to New Zealand army soldiers who have been sleeping in their armoured vehicles while working round the clock rotating shifts providing service and security to residents.

A decision on what to do with the next 14 cabins will be made by the Department of Building and Housing next week.

Placemakers announced it would donate the $200,000 insulated and powered shelters last week. Each measures 10 square metres and can fit two to four people.