Buller District Council has delayed the opening of the Toki Poutangata Bridge planned for 23 February due to recent severe weather events and State of Emergency declarations.
Council said Westport and other localities in the Buller district had been hit hard with extreme rainfall, flooding, property and infrastructure damage.
The current focus for council is assisting communities and the return to service of essential lifelines, before commencing a broader recovery and infrastructure rebuild programme, said Mayor, Jamie Cleine.
“Our priority is with our people, and the next month is critical to ensure we do everything possible to provide support. Whilst we do look forward to Toki opening, we have more pressing matters for now.”
The opening date has been rescheduled to 16 March.
For more information on the Riverbank project go to www.bullerdc.govt.nz/westport-riverfront-project/
