A limited number of tradespeople in Buller means some people will have to wait a year for repairs after two cyclones struck the area, District mayor Garry Howard says.
Buller was ravaged by cyclone Fehi, then cyclone Gita, hitting within weeks of each other. Photo: RNZ / Tracy Neal
Last month, cyclone Fehi brought large sea swells to the West Coast which flooded homes and damaged roads.
It was followed by cyclone Gita, which brought high winds and rain to the already suffering region.
Mr Howard said there were more than 30 homes in the Westport area that still could not be lived in due to damage, and there was a limited pool of contractors able to do all of the repairs required.
"There is a time lag that's going on and it could be up to 12 months for some properties for their repair and for the families to be able to go back to them."
Mr Howard said contractors were prioritising work and trying to help those affected as quickly as possible.