Christchurch City Council is calling for an immediate pause in the demolition of the city's Anglican cathedral, in response to a submission from campaigners wanting to save the building.
The council voted 10 to four in favour of asking for the halt at a meeting on Thursday.
Councillor Aaron Keown says that while the resolution shows solidarity with those opposing the demolition, legal action may be required to force the church to change its decision.
He also moved an amendment to explore the legal options available to the council, but that vote was tied seven-all, so it was lost.
The Restore ChristChurch Cathedral group addressed councillors and a full public gallery earlier on Thursday saying the pause is needed so restoration options can be fully considered.
Group spokesperson Mark Belton told councillors the Anglican Church has abandoned its responsibility of care for the building and urged the council to take a stronger position on the issue.
Mr Belton said council support would put more pressure on the Government to step in.
He said while restoration would be expensive, there is a huge amount of international goodwill that can be tapped to help fund it.
