Time is no longer standing still on Christchurch's historic clock tower, which has been restored to its pre-quake glory.
Christchurch's historic clock tower. Photo: RNZ / Patrick Phelps
Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel, unveiling the restored clock, said it was wonderful to see it welcoming visitors to the thriving Victoria Street Precinct.
"Victoria Street itself has become quite a bustling hive of activity since the earthquakes so in a way, it's part of our heritage, actually supporting the rebuilt Christchurch and the new Christchurch, and I think that's great," she said.
The clock was built in 1897 to mark 60 years of Queen Victoria's reign.
Meanwhile, demolition of the Sumner Returned and Services Association building where a man died in the February 2011 quake begins today using a remote-controlled excavator.
The building and section were hit by large rocks in the 22 February quake.
Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority Port Hills Clearance manager Brenden Winder said the site was such high risk that the authority had taken control of the work.
Because of the risks, there would be intensive geotechnical monitoring, as well as the remote-controlled machinery.
"We only use it in the circumstances where life risk is so great that we want to help withdraw the guy from the machine but leave the machinery close to the building," Mr Winder said.
"So it's not highly unusual but it's certainly not common, either."
The work would take about two weeks to complete.