The Green Party would set up a fund to pay for the rebuilding of Christchurch, generated from an earthquake levy on people with higher incomes.
Co-leader Russel Norman says the Greens are the only party proposing a dedicated revenue stream to be used exclusively for the work that needs to be done following the earthquakes.
"There's only three ways pay for this: we can have a temporary earthquake levy, we can cut spending in other areas or we can increase borrowing.
"People around New Zealand want to contribute, they want to help out. This is a way we can all be part of it."
Dr Norman said a majority of New Zealanders prefer a targetted, temporary earthquake levy over the other two options.
The levy would apply to people earning over $48,000 a year. Those on $48,000 - $70,000 would pay an additional 1.5% in income tax and anyone earning above $70,000 an extra 3% in tax.
Dr Norman it would raise more than $1 billion a year, which would cover the $5.5 billion the Government has borrowed and put aside for the recovery.
The National Party says imposing a levy is a ridiculous idea. Earthquake Recovery spokesperson Gerry Brownlee said it was nothing more than a tax, and people shouldn't be hit in the pocket.
"We've said, lets use the balance sheet to support people in Canterbury," he said.
Christchurch ratepayers are already expected to pay an earthquake levy to the city council which increased rates by 1.76%.
Asked why they should be hit twice, Dr Norman said the party had thought about making Christchurch residents exempt but feedback from Treasury suggested that wouldn't work.
The Greens made their policy announcement in central Christchurch, where Piko Wholefoods used to be, before it was demolished.
The site has significance for the party as its former co-leader, the late Rod Donald, founded the store.
