The state of emergency for the Canterbury region that's been in place since the November 14 earthquake has been extended for another week.

Civil Defence says that while the situation has improved in the region, there were still some situations where the powers of the declaration were useful; including the management of the Kaikoura Emergency Access Route and evacuation of residents at Goose Bay.

Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel said there is urgent legislation in place in parliament at the moment to strengthen the legislative framework for recovery.

Once the legislation is passed, cancelling the state of emergency could be considered, and the recovery process could begin.