Mr Solomon said he was in a meeting in Wellington when he looked at a television screen and read the words "Massive earthquake hits Christchurch - multiple fatalities".
Two of those fatalities have been confirmed as coming from the Ngai Tahu community - including one who died helping others, he said.
Within a day, the iwi had set up its own 0800 KAI TAHU phone number to assist people seeking urgent accommodation, fuel, food and bedding.
A trust account had been set up for affected families, but details were yet to be finalised.
Ngai Tahu was supported by iwi throughout New Zealand, with marae accommodating those wanting to flee the city, and container load of non-perishables arriving ready to be distributed, Mr Solomon said.
"There has been a huge outpouring of aroha."
Damage to its "considerable" portfolio of inner city property - including the Christchurch Police Station, courts building and its share in the Christchurch City Council - was yet to be assessed.
Of most concern was its headquarters near the off-centre Hotel Grand Chancellor, he said.
Engineers would assess each building once they had completed their more pressing tasks and when it was safe to enter the CBD, he said.
An outspoken supporter of private-public partnerships, Mr Solomon said Ngai Tahu was likely to play a role in the rebuilding of Christchurch, but it was too soon to discuss details.
"The recovery of Christchurch will be a major priority. We are involved in this region, we have lots of landholdings and it is our community."
On behalf of the iwi, Mr Solomon extended his thanks to those who had rallied round the embattled city, particularly those who came from overseas to assist.
