Wild Weather Affects Access Road at Waikouaiti

Dunedin (Monday, 22 June, 2015) – The Dunedin City Council is warning motorists wishing to access the sports fields at Waikouaiti to drive carefully after recent wild seas washed away part of Matanaka Drive.

With more strong seas expected this week, DCC staff are concerned that further erosion might occur. The road has been closed at a point past the turn off to the sports fields, but there is still access to the rugby club.

Group Manager Transportation Gene Ollerenshaw says this type of erosion is a common problem in coastal areas.

“Two residents are affected by the erosion at the north end, so work is being carried out by our contractor to maintain access to these properties, this work includes the shoring up of a section of road which was eaten into. At the southern section of Matakana Drive the carriageway hasn’t been damaged yet, but the road reserve has been significantly eroded.

“If bad weather continues there is potential for more damage, but we will do what we can to maintain it until other options are considered for a long term solution.”

Group Manager Parks, Recreation and Aquatics, Richard Saunders says the key concern is ensuring access to park users both in the short and long term. He says the DCC will be consulting with the community to ensure all options are explored to find the best solution.

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