The Earthquake Recovery Minister says it was inevitable some Christchurch properties would be compulsorily acquired, especially given the range of opinions on what the land is worth.
The Government has for the first time used its special post-earthquake powers to take over nine properties in central Christchurch.
It wants the land to fit in with plans for a residential and green area that will border the central city.
Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee says the property owners could not agree with the Government on what their properties are worth, so they will be compensated with the current market value.
Mr Brownlee says he is not surprised some owners want more than the Government is happy to pay.
The decision can be appealed against and Christchurch restaurant owner Richard Middleton says he will probably do so.
Mr Middleton says he will make that decision in the next day.
The Crown now owns 171 of the 345 properties it requires for its anchor projects.
Further compulsory acquisitions are likely to follow in other anchor project areas.
