The Property Council says new payments by the Wellington City Council will do little to safeguard the city's heritage buildings.
The council is offering $150,000 to help with strengthening plans for 11 of the country's oldest character buildings.
Mike Cole, the president of the Wellington branch of the Property Council, said it was not enough because earthquake-strengthening costs typically ran into the millions.
"This is a drop in the bucket but I do appreciate they are considering other measures in their long-term plan," he said.
"I know they're working on other measures so I don't want to be too critical about this one."
Mr Cole said meaningful financial assistance or rates relief would be a real help.
