Owners of heritage-listed buildings in Hawke's Bay are urged to apply for government funds to pay for expensive earthquake-strengthening work.
Almost a year after the Ministry for Culture and Heritage launched its $12 million Heritage EQUIP fund, only $192,253 has been allocated to building owners in Hawke's Bay - and all of that in Napier.
With $8.9m still remaining in the fund, Heritage EQUIP and the Ministry for Culture and Heritage are looking for more applications from regional New Zealand.
Heritage EQUIP expert advisory panel chairman Matthew Kidson says some of the country's unique heritage can be found in regional New Zealand.
"There are some stunning heritage buildings in the Hawke's Bay area but as we know, many need earthquake strengthening. These buildings are part of the culture and character of Hawke's Bay. We want to keep them around for a long time yet.