Construction has begun on the first multi-level building to be built in Christchurch's CBD since last February's massive earthquake.
The new four-level building, at 271 Madras Street, is on the site of the former Harcourts Grenadier Real Estate building, which was demolished after the February 22 quake.
It will be built to the highest earthquake standards, and is due for completion by Christmas.
Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee says the start of construction on Friday is an important milestone for the city's recovery.
"[It] demonstrates a belief in the future of the central city by the building's owners, and by the tenants they have secured to occupy the building," Mr Brownlee said.
"It sends a message to other property owners in the central city that investing in the future of Christchurch can happen now, ahead of completion in the CBD demolition programme."
Also in the city's CBD, piles are being driven on the $20 million Latimer Lodge hotel site at Latimer Square, while consent has been granted for a $7 million boutique mall in the old Woolston Tannery complex on Cumnor Terrace.
Mr Brownlee says those and other projects - including new supermarkets and aged care facilities - should reassure the public that Christchurch's redevelopment is well under way.
NZN