More schools open in quake-hit Canterbury

More schools have opened in quake-hit Cantberbury today, but the vast majority will stay closed until Monday.

Schools were closed following Saturday's 7.1 magnitude tremor which caused massive damage and warnings over the safety of drinking water.

Education Minister Anne Tolley is visiting the earthquake-hit region this morning.

"Everyone is working hard to make sure the schools and early childhood centres open as soon as possible," she said.

"A handful of schools opened for students yesterday, with a few more set to open today, but many schools have indicated they will be open for students on Monday."

Tolley was this morning set to visit Halswell School, which has severe damage.

Four schools yesterday re-opened for the first time after Saturday's quake, with parents allowed to keep their kids at home if they preferred. Some children went home from school at lunchtime "to be close to Mum," Southbridge School principal Peter Verstappen said.

Along with Southbridge, schools in Oxford, Cust and Akaroa re-opened yesterday.

Set to open today were Mairehau School and Belfast School.

A further 96 schools in the region have indicated they will stay shut until Monday.

"Everyone concerned is doing a fantastic job in extremely difficult circumstances," Tolley.

"I also want to thank parents for showing patience."