Yesterday independent property consultant Chris Towers showed through three parties from Newcastle and interstate.

Mr Towers is working on behalf of Sydney's CMF Commercial, which is a joint selling agent in partnership with The Professionals.

"I think whilst it's early days there's been some really good inquiry from both locals and Sydney-based consortia," Mr Towers said.

"Some are in the hotel liquor licensing business and others are looking at it in on the basis of a corporate headquarters or development opportunity."

A retail development in the style of Sydney's Queen Victoria building containing high-end fashion outlets was also being considered.

CMF said yesterday it had 12 inquiries, with two requests for contracts.

Mr Towers said the auction had been put back from an initial date of May 13 to May 20 to give potential buyers more time.

Feedback so far was that it was a unique but major project.

"I think everyone realises that it's a landmark building," Mr Towers said.

"However it needs significant investment to bring it up to speed."

Hunter developers and hospitality industry sources say State Government procrastination on the future of the inner-city rail line and other key projects will limit interest in the post office.