The opening of the Bluecliffs bar at the mouth of the Waiau River appears to have failed to have any impact on the coastal erosion that prompted a State of Emergency being declared on 8th February.

Despite contractors moving of more than 30,000 cubic metres of material, Emergency Management Southland Civil Defence controller Paul Le Roux said within a tide cycle the bar had started to close up again.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN

Listen to Emergency Management Southland Civil Defence controller Paul Le Roux as he explains challenges they face trying to deal with one of Southland's most drawn out emergencies.