Earthquake-damaged Queensgate Mall to come down today

The Lower Hutt mall was damaged in the November 14 quake. Photo / Katrina Bennett

Work has begun to bring down the earthquake-damaged part of Queensgate Mall.

The Lower Hutt shopping centre was damaged in the November 14 quake.

The building, housing Events Cinema and part of a carpark, is being demolished as it is at risk of collapse.

Cordon watch at Queensgate. More than 70 shops remain closed. High reach excavators on site. pic.twitter.com/WMGL6r3Gt8

— Georgina Campbell (@GeorgeKCampbell) November 30, 2016

Queensgate says contractor Naylor Love began preparations last Friday.

It says so far they have focused on working within the building, but heavy machinery is now preparing to remove the structure.