By 3 News online staff
The demolition of two dangerous six-storey Christchurch apartment blocks may have to be delayed until tomorrow.
The Park Terrace Apartments were left prone to collapse after the quake two days before Christmas.
Engineers are uneasy about leaving the job half done, so if they're unable to make a start just after lunch, they may be forced to wait until tomorrow.
Machinery is being assembled this morning to demolish the building from distance.
Park Terrace and Salisbury St are closed to traffic and nearby residents evacuated.
There is a high danger one of the buildings will collapse once demolition begins, CERA says.
It is being demolished from the top down by machinery parked at a considerable distance.
Meanwhile, part of Merivale Mall in Christchurch has been closed since Saturday, after an engineering report found the area containing 18 shops is earthquake prone.
Tenants are expected to meet with management on Tuesday to discuss repairs and plans for temporary accommodation, the Press reported.
CERA has asked about 8000 Christchurch building owners to do a detailed engineering examination of their buildings and submit a report over the next two months.
3 News / NZN