Glenn Puna, a crib owner at Bluecliffs and spokesperson for the community, said people were "very stressed". The evacuation is just the latest disruption for residents who have been living under a state of emergency for four weeks. Mayor Rob Scott has indicated managed retreat is the only long-term solution for Bluecliffs residents, but Puna wants to see more fight. Hicks acknowledged two days' notice was short for the upcoming evacuation, but said a state of emergency was in place and safety was paramount. Bluecliffs is home to just under 20 houses and six permanent residents.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 08, 2024 10:23 UTC