Hundreds of Inland Revenue staff have been sent home after it was found their central Wellington office tower may not be safe in an earthquake.
The Asteron building. Photo: RNZ / Emile Donovan
When looking to renew the lease at The Asteron building on Featherston Street, the IRD received a poorer seismic assessment than previously issued.
Up to 1000 staff will work from home until the building can be strengthened.
Inland Revenue said no decision had been made on whether it will now renew the lease.
The 17-storey block is Wellington's largest office building.
The CAA has also confirmed its Wellington head office staff who work in The Asteron have been sent home for the next two days while review of seismic report is underway
It said all normal services will continue to be provided via phone and email.
