The destruction of the Radio Network building in Christchurch has prompted hopes that explosive demolition could be used to bring down other earthquake-damaged buildings.
The spire of Christ Church Cathedral once stood 20 storeys high but was reduced to less than half that by last year's earthquake. Its temporary replacement's construction began yesterday with the first sod turned.
Park Terrace and Salisbury Street in Christchurch will be blocked off today ahead of the staged demolition of two high rise apartment blocks.
Santarium is cutting 36 jobs in Christchurch as it pulls out of manufacturing Weetbix in the city. The final engineering report on the site says the factory's tower block is an earthquake risk, and demolition starts tomorrow.