The first part of a key report into the Canterbury earthquakes has been delivered to the New Zealand Government.

Attorney-General Christopher Finlayson received part one of the final report of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Building Failure Caused by Canterbury Earthquakes last week.

The report’s recommendations will inform decisions about rebuilding and repair work in Christchurch.

Ministers will now consider the report, which has not yet been publicly released.

Although the commission originally planned to release its final report in April, the Government agreed to extend its reporting dates and allow the commission to present the report in parts.

The remaining sections of the report are due by November.

In October last year the commission’s interim report recommended improving the safety of unreinforced masonry buildings as soon as practicable.