The Prime Minister says about 1,700 government workers will move back into the centre of Christchurch, which he says will help support the post-quake recovery of the central business district.
In a speech to the Canterbury Employers' Chamber of Commerce, John Key said about 20 public sector departments and agencies would relocate into the city centre, most likely during 2016.
He said they would move into four new buildings around the retail precinct, at a cost of $90 million over the next 20 years.
Mr Key said they would include staff from the Ministry of Social Development, the Accident Compensation Corporation, Internal Affairs and the Department of Conservation.
He said the move was a clear signal of the Government's optimism for the future of the city and region.
Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee says the Government is committed to the revitalisation of Christchurch, and the symbolism of going back into the central city is very strong.
Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce chief executive Peter Townsend says the public servants' return will give private-sector investors confidence but the Government needs to reveal its plans for the anchor projects and when these will be completed.
Mr Townsend says rents will be more expensive in the rebuilt central city, so there will be a different mix of tenants.
One of the largest property owners in Christchurch, Antony Gough, says the announcement will give other businesses the confidence to move from the city's outskirts and set up shop in the CBD again.
Mr Gough says it's important the Government sends the right signals to investors about the future of the central city.
