Supplies arrive by air at the regional distribution hub in Hastings where about 100 volunteers at working flat out. Photo: RNZ/Soumya Bhamidipati
Police in Eastern District say there are 1131 reports of people remaining unaccounted for in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle and are urging people to come forward.
Police Commissioner Andrew Coster says there are about 100 police staff working on reconnecting people reported missing in Cyclone Gabrielle.
This afternoon, Coster said police wanted to get the number of those unaccounted for down to those who were actually missing.
"Our message is, if someone is just reconnecting with the world please let us know you are okay. Come online on our 105 digital service," he said.
"Tell us if you've reported someone missing and you've now found them. Let us know".
People can register that they themselves, or a person they were concerned for, is safe by accessing a form on the New Zealand Police website.
Police in Eastern District have conducted more than 500 "proactive community-based jobs" in the 24 hours to 8am Tuesday, which includes foot patrols, engaging with the public and providing advice and support.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has appointed the six ministers who will help coordinate the government's cyclone response.
Kelvin Davis, Michael Wood, Nanaia Mahuta, Kiri Allan, Stuart Nash and Kieran McAnulty will represent the six affected regions.
Hipkins, Megan Woods, Carmel Sepuloni, Willie Jackson and Meka Whaitiri will also be members.
They will report to the new Extreme Weather Recovery Committee, which will be chaired by Grant Robertson as the new Minister for Cyclone Recovery.
RNZ's live blog has now closed for today
