Local State of Emergency Extended for Bluecliffs Erosion

This is an official message from the Civil Defence Controller, Simon Mapp.
Update – Bluecliffs State of Emergency – #5

The state of emergency for the Bluecliffs area has once again been extended. Southland District Mayor Rob Scott signed off the extension at 8:15 a.m. this morning, which now extends until the 26th of February, 2024. Related: Bluecliffs State of Emergency Extended Another Week as River Mouth Work Continues

The threat to the Bluecliffs community has not diminished, and efforts continue in finding ways to clear the tip site and in opening the mouth of the Waiau River.

“Works were progressing well on the cut in the Waiau River mouth until work had to be paused on Sunday for safety reasons. We hope to be able to complete this later this week,” Mr. Mapp stated.

The opening of the bar will hopefully reduce erosion in front of the properties and the tip for a period, which will enable further conversations with the community about the future of the area.

“It is a highly complex and changing environment, and it’s unknown how effective this opening may be or how much time it might provide the residents,” Mr. Mapp added.

Emergency Management Southland will be restricting public access to the boat ramp and some roads in the area to manage access to the active work site for contractors and ensure everyone’s safety.

“We’ve had reports of people visiting the area out of curiosity. Please avoid any unnecessary travel to the area while this state of emergency is in place. This is for the safety of the residents and those working in the area.”