Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee says a decision to save the Anglican cathedral in Christchurch is solely up to the Anglican Church.
Mr Brownlee has spoken publicly for the first time on a report that says the building can be saved.
The report, issued last week by the Great Christchurch Buildings Trust, says the church is safe for restoration work, which contradicts the basis for its demolition order.
Demolition work is stopped until the findings are explored properly.
Mr Brownlee says the report proposes a method but does not provide costings or a work schedule.
He says it is important the Anglican Church considers all possible options because, as the owner, it will ultimately decide the fate of the building.