The Aorearoa Legalise Cannabis Party (ALCP) has called on the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) to use its special powers to legalise cannabis in Christchurch.

ALCP noted Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee has said CERA had "wide powers to relax, suspend and extend laws".

Deputy leader Michael Britnell said all Christchurch residents had experienced trauma and stress as a result of the earthquake.

"Cannabis is known to help with post traumatic stress disorder," he said.

"Sativex is already available on prescription from a doctor, we would like to see New Zealand's medpot programme extended."

Mr Britnell noted that the Law Commission recently called for a moratorium on medical cannabis arrests.

New CERA boss Roger Sutton has yet to return a request for comment.

NBR does have concerns about the affect of marijuana on Christchurch citizens' reflexes in the event of a major aftershock.