The streets of Christchurch are not only littered with debris from Saturday's earthquake but also littered with those there to help.

The stress of the whole thing is evident on the faces of Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker and Waimakariri Mayor Ron Keating, who are among those running on very little sleep.

Many have been working long shifts in the aftermath of the quake, despite many of their own houses also needing attention.

Behind all the officials, are also the bands of volunteers who are doing their bit for the community, whether it's cooking meals for others on the front lawn or housing their neighbours who may not have been so fortunate.

One thing is for certain, if they didn't know their neighbours before the quake, they do now.

Second Lieutenant Brad Cottam has been in the city since Saturday and said it was a rollercoaster of emotions out there for people, with soldiers often confronted with people's hardships.

He and around 80 of his colleagues have been given tasks all around the city, from delivering blankets and people to welfare centres to shovelling streets and helping with cordons.

"There's a lot of damage to people's lives but it's been really amazing to see the community pulling together like they have.

"It's nice to be able to help out but it's sad to see, especially when people invite you into their homes to show you the damage.

"A lot of the guys out there helping have got friends and family in badly affected areas as well, so it's important to get time for themselves too. Like many others, I've been here from the start and will be here until the end," he said.

Many others also praised the actions of volunteers, with university students high on the list.

One soldier said the students had been absolutely fantastic and had shed their scarfie title to help as much as possible.

Reinforcements for a number of agencies are heading towards the affected areas ahead of the weekend, when many people are expected to return to the district to inspect their homes after fleeing in the aftermath of the quake.