The next big step in repairing the damage from the Canterbury earthquake will begin soon in Christchurch.
Christchurch mayor Bob Parker says the council is waiting on technical drawings from the Earthquake Commission so they can repair damaged infrastructure and strengthen liquified land caused by the 7.1-magnitude quake on 4 September.
The drawings are expected to be finished by the end of January.
Mr Parker says the council is hoping to co-ordinate the strengthening and repairs so they can be completed at the same time.
He believes quake damage to the city's infrastructure will cost about $500,000 to repair.