The states of emergency put in place after the Canterbury earthquake were this morning extended until midday Thursday.

The Government has taken on sweeping powers to rebuild Christchurch after the earthquake.

Maori Party MP Hone Harawira won't be voting for the new foreshore and seabed legislation that his party fought for.

The Govt has won political support for emergency earthquake relief legislation that will bypass existing laws to speed up rebuilding in Canterbury.

Battle shows huge public interest in district facing widely publicised issues.