In response to increasing erosion threatening homes and a landfill in Bluecliffs, Southland District Mayor Rob Scott declared a local state of emergency at 10:50 am on Thursday 8th February. The declaration enables Emergency Management Southland to address the risk to life and property effectively. Despite the rising concern from heavy rain and sea swells, residents are advised to stay alert and prepare for potential evacuation if necessary.

Emergency Management Controller Simon Mapp highlighted that the declaration allows for immediate actions, such as managing the Waiau River’s flow to reduce erosion. The situation in Bluecliffs, worsened by recent floods, has prompted discussions between the council, Environment Southland, and the community to find temporary solutions, including potentially opening the Waiau River mouth.

The community landfill, already compromised by erosion, has faced additional delays in removal efforts due to the discovery of buried explosives. The council and Environment Southland are exploring further measures to mitigate the risk and manage the landfill’s removal. Residents have been offered alternative accommodation if they feel their safety is at risk, and expert contractors are being consulted for the operation, considering weather, tides, and river flows.

Summary Points

  • A local state of emergency was declared in Bluecliffs to address threats from erosion and an at-risk landfill.
  • Residents are not currently required to evacuate but should remain vigilant and ready to leave if the situation worsens.
  • Efforts to manage the crisis include potentially opening the Waiau River mouth and finding solutions for the eroding landfill, now complicated by the discovery of explosives.
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