Earthquake repairs have begun on a heritage house in Christchurch built by the first permanent settlers in Canterbury.
The $2 million project to repair and strengthen Riccarton House began this week.
The Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Trust donated nearly $130,000 to help cover the bill.
Trustee Rod Carr says the trust is pleased it can help fund the restoration of such a culturally and historically significant building.
The house, which is a museum and function venue, has been closed to the public since February 2011 quake.
The repair project is due to be completed in early 2014.
