Restaurants and cafes on the edge of the Christchurch central business district are anxiously waiting to see if their customers will return as they prepare to reopen.
The public have been allowed back into the area around part of Victoria Street for the first time since an earthquake on 22 February caused severe damage.
Most of the shops and offices along the street remained empty on Monday, but many cafes and restaurants were a hive of activity.
Graham Perrem from Vic's Cafe hopes to open by Thursday, but is wary about the impact the reduction of office workers in the area is going to have.
Niche Cafe's Jeff Loader is dealing with repairs and ordering new equipment, but is concerned that the road closure outside his cafe will reduce customers.
However, Richard Winter from Spagalimi's Pizza is hoping that by the time he reopens some of those who have been swarming into nearby surburban Merivale will head their way.
