A cluster of white zone residents who have been waiting nearly two years for answers have today been told their homes have been zoned red.
Thirty-seven Heathcote Valley houses have joined the more than 7,800 properties which the Government deems unsafe to live in following the Christchurch earthquakes.
Resident Simon Jerard said the wait had been stressful for his family but they were prepared to write off the equity and move on.
"It's our family home, and it's a shame because in the years to come, it will just be a reserve.
"There'll be anguish there, and emotions."
But other homeowners, including Roland Logan, say they are prepared to challenge the decision.
"Obviously there's a review process, and I challenge Roger Sutton and the Minister to release all the information including all the cabinet papers."
Logan said a geotech expert informed him the risk of rockfall around his property could be managed.
"They've all agreed that remediation is imminently achievable and cheap to carry out."
The cost of buying out red zone homes is over $1 billion, and the number could increase with more white zone houses still at risk of landslips.