Continuing indecision over the demolition of the badly damaged Grand Chancellor Hotel is stalling efforts to rebuild Christchurch.
Tenders for the demolition closed a month ago. Four parties are understood to be vying for the contract, but there is still no decision.
The 27-storey building has been leaning since the earthquake on 22 February.
A large area around it is blocked to the public, because of the risk of a collapse.
Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority says the estimates are currently being assessed and that process cannot be rushed.
It hopes to make a decision by the end of May.