Catlins Coast Inc chairwoman Hilary McNab said the group had raised its concerns with Clutha District Council during recent annual plan hearings, in the hope the council could find a solution before next tourist season.
The Purakaunui Falls were a popular visitor hotspot throughout the year and particularly in summer, due to their proximity to Catlins towns Owaka and Kākā Point, combined with an accessible 600m track, she said.
“The falls are a big drawcard for the area, and that means, in summer, they get a lot of tourist traffic, including campervans and people unfamiliar with NZ road conditions.
“They’re a bit unusual, as they have a big carpark, but it’s on the opposite side of the road to the falls entrance.
“That means you have a combination of tourist drivers and local drivers on the road, and pedestrians of all ages, including children, crossing the road continually.
“Then the road as it comes to the car park is poorly signposted, with just a single small sign 400m in advance, and the carpark appears quickly round a sweeping corner.
“The concern is that all these factors will come into play one day, and someone will get hurt.”
She hoped the council would review signage and visibility around the site, and take steps to improve safety before Labour Weekend.
“Mirrors would be one possibility and someone suggested a pedestrian underpass, although that would be costly.
“I think a good start would be an improvement to signage and maintaining roadside bush so that it doesn’t obscure visibility any more than necessary.”
The council had acknowledged the request during the meeting, she said.
Staff are expected to make an assessment of potential next steps, before reporting back to council.
