Asbestos has been found in a Southland dump that is eroding into the sea.

The settlement of Bluecliffs remains under a state of emergency, after rapid erosion from the sea and Waiau River threatened properties last month.

Permanent residents were told to evacuate their homes last week so work could get underway to clear the old dump site, which could potentially contain explosives.

Emergency Management Southland said about 320 tonnes of material had been removed since Tuesday.

"No explosives have been discovered, however, asbestos is present and being separated and managed by the specialists.

"The work is under constant surveillance by an explosives expert as material is carefully assessed and removed."

High winds delayed the start of the removal on Monday.

Reproduced with permission