The Southland regional council says it wanted to carry out emergency works at an endangered coastal community much sooner but couldn't because of environmental laws.
The tiny settlement of Bluecliffs is under a local state of emergency as heavy rain and sea swells have caused massive erosion, putting homes at risk.
Authorities are expected to open the sandbar at the Waiau River mouth, to redirect the river flow from next week.
Southland District Mayor Rob Scott spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
