The state of emergency at Bluecliffs has been prolonged for another week.

The decision was officially signed-off by Southland District Mayor Rob Scott at 8.40 am today, following a recommendation from Emergency Management Southland (EMS) controller Simon Mapp.

The local State of Emergency was declared on 8th February, after heavy rain and sea swells eroded up to 10 metres from coastal banks at the Bluecliffs township and landfill.

Mapp said work was continuing on opening the cut in the Waiau River mouth bar.

"We hope [the work] will be complete later this week but that is dependent on several factors,” Mapp said.

Success to the operation hinges on the timing of sea swells and tides, with Meridian contributing by managing river flow.

EMS said issues at the area's tip site were also being addressed with a specialist on-site today to explore potential solutions.

While the opening of the bar is hoped to alleviate erosion from in front of the Bluecliff properties and the tip for a temporary period for a time, the long-term threat to the Bluecliffs community will remain, EMS said.

If the current operation proves successful, it is hoped it will provide some relief so that further discussions with the community regarding the area's future can be held.

Limited public access to the boat ramp and certain roads in the vicinity will continue to remain in force.

Mapp issued a plea for the public to refrain from unnecessary travel to the area during the ongoing state of emergency, to ensure the safety of residents and those engaged in the area's critical operations.