The Wellington headquarters of dozens of ministries and government departments remain closed following Monday's earthquakes, with some seriously damaged.
It's understood one of the most damaged buildings is Freyberg House on Aitken St, which is home to the Defence Force and Defence Ministry.
It has been cordoned off and there are sizable cracks in the ceiling of the ground floor, as well as damage to the surrounding footpaths.
A Defence Force spokesperson says the full extent of the damage to the building will not be known for several days.
"Until that assessment is complete we cannot determine what work will have to be done or when it will be possible to reoccupy the building," the spokesperson says.
Freyberg House (Lloyd Burr/Newshub)
Freyberg House (Lloyd Burr/Newshub)
Freyberg House (Lloyd Burr/Newshub)
Also closed on Aitken St is the Justice Centre which is home to ACC, the Ministry of Justice, Crown Law, Courts, the Treaty Settlement Office, and the Public Defence Office.
A cursory look from outside the building shows a ramp on the bottom floor has cracked tiles and a security guard is stationed at the front door forbidding entry to the building. There are also broken windows.
A spokesman for the Ministry says the building is structurally sound, but has suffered some water damage due to burst pipes.
"A plan is being developed for a staged reoccupation from Monday."
No. 1 The Terrace has been evacuated too - it's home to Treasury and some Ministry of Health staff. Newshub understands the lift shafts have sustained damage.
The Department of Internal Affairs on Featherston street - which is where passports are processed - has also been closed. An update to staff says the building is still being inspected and the landlord is unable to give a return time.
"We may not have access for some weeks and are working on alternative accommodation options. Please do not go to work until further notice and talk to your manager."
The Ministry for Primary Industries is currently without an office in Wellington. It's spread across three buildings, Pastoral House, Te Puni Kokiri on Lambton Quay and Customs House - all three are closed for business.
Which Govt buildings are closed?
The GCSB Building (Newshub/Lloyd Burr)
Environment House (Newshub/Lloyd Burr)
Newshub.
