The family of a man killed in this week's 7.8 magnitude earthquake have spoken of their gratitude to those who have supported the family since the tragedy.
Louis Edgar died when historic Kaikoura homestead The Elms collapsed during the massive quake just after midnight on Monday.
Edgar's wife Pam and 100-year-old mother, Margaret, were rescued from the rubble of the family's longtime home.
Edgar's family this morning thanked those who had supported them since the quake.
"We would like to express our sincere gratitude for all the support we have received after the earthquake. We especially want to thank the Kaikoura Volunteer Fire Brigade and Mr and Mrs Seddon, who were our first responders.
"The support and help from the Kaikoura community has been truly humbling and we are so very grateful.
"We have been overwhelmed with interest from the media. We have given one interview and there will be no more. We request privacy at this time to grieve and support each other."