The state of local emergency in Queenstown, originally declared on Friday (September 22) morning after a severe weather event, has been lifted. 

Some restrictions will remain in place to protect public safety as the focus turns to recovery.

“I am now terminating the state of local emergency with regard to Queenstown, within the Otago CDEM Group Area, and giving notice of a [28 day] transition period over Queenstown within [the area],” Queenstown Lakes District mayor Glyn Lewers said.

Queensland Lakes District Council’s parks and reserves team continue to liaise closely with religious groups and iwi in order to provide updates to those concerned about loved ones’ graves at the Queenstown Cemetery. The cemetery has been impacted by water runoff and debris.

All roads and streets in the centre of Queenstown have reopened with the exception of Glenorchy-Queenstown Rd between One Mile roundabout and Sunshine Bay (detour via Fernhill Rd). 

Locally, the Haast Pass road remains closed with an update expected on Monday (September 25). Mt Aspiring Road is also closed at Glenfinnan Bluffs due to landslide and instability on the hills above.

Some tracks, trails and reserves across the district also remain fully or partially closed with signage in place.

PHOTO: Queenstown Lakes District Council