Insight for Sunday 8 January 2012

Government and school buildings are under scrutiny over how safe they would be in the event of an earthquake and many maybe evacuated while strengthening work is done.

The earthquakes in Christchurch have meant the safety of buildings is now being taken much more seriously.

In particular, the future of heritage buildings throughout the country is now less certain.

While there's public support for their retention, there is little in the way of financial incentives available for property owners to do strengthening and restoration work.

In a programme first broadcast last year, Lorna Perry, finds that many  think  historic  buildings are a luxury.