Bluecliffs. Photo: RNZ/Tess Brunton
Work to remove hazardous material from an old dump site at Bluecliffs has been delayed due to strong winds.
The settlement at the mouth of the Waiau River, near Tūātapere has been under a state of emergency since early February after rapid erosion from the sea and Waiau River threatened a number of properties
The local state of emergency has been extended for another week, until 17 March, while work gets underway to remove material from the old dump site - which could contain explosives, asbestos and other hazardous materials.
Southland mayor Rob Scott said the dump site was set up at the weekend with containers, fencing, machinery and cameras installed. The site has a 1 kilometre radius and security in place 24/7.
"There are potentially explosives, asbestos and other hazardous material there, and the focus is on ensuring the safety of the residents and those working in the area."
Scott said it could take up to three weeks to remove the material.
Last week, permanent residents were told at a community meeting they had two days to evacuate their homes by 4pm on Friday.
Scott said the short notice was not ideal - but reflected the need to get the work underway as soon as possible.
"This is not a typical emergency, and we're grateful that we've been able to work with the individual residents at Bluecliffs and support them as much as possible."
Residents have lived under a state of emergency for the past month while work has begun to protect houses from worsening erosion.
Evacuated Bluecliffs residents are allowed to go back into their properties for an hour and a half between 6.30pm and 8pm, from Monday.
The council is awaiting a review of the work undertaken on the gravel bar at the Waiau River mouth and independent advice on suitable next steps.
