An inner city Wellington street remains cordoned off as the risk remains of one of its buildings collapsing.

Last night engineers raised the alarm on the Molesworth Street building when checking it after Monday's severe quake.

LISTEN ABOVE: Georgia Nelson speaks to Rachel Smalley from Wellington 

The building is vacant and undergoing renovations but seven buildings surrounding it have been evacuated.

Fire Service regional commander Brendan Nally said a supporting beam has been fractured right through.

"The is at significant risk of collapse so currently police and fire are conducting operation to seal off the area until further decisions can be made."

He said it's undecided whether the building will be strengthened or torn down.