Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Part of Christchurch mall cordoned off

Updated at 5:52 pm on 11 February 2012

A large section of Merivale Mall in Christchurch has been deemed an earthquake risk and cordoned off.

Tower Investments manage the property. Chief executive officer Sam Stubbs says engineers have advised that an area within the shopping centre is quake-prone. The area includes 18 shops, two kiosks and Fresh Choice supermarket.

Mr Stubbs says the mall manager acted immediately on this advice and cordoned off the recommended area in Papanui Road on Saturday morning. It is not known how long it will remain closed.

Mr Stubbs says while the closure is inconvenient for tenants and customers at Merivale Mall, their safety cannot be compromised.

About 25 shops remain open.

Copyright © 2012, Radio New Zealand