Volunteer firefighters have spoken out after being abused by members of the public while responding to a rockfall on Main Road in Sumner.

As first reported by Chris Lynch Media, The main road was closed to allow emergency services to clear the road.

A section of protective wire netting had also been dislodged, prompting an immediate decision to close both the road and footpath to protect the public while specialists assessed the hillside.

The Sumner Volunteer Fire Brigade said the closure was necessary for safety, but volunteers were subjected to abuse from some members of the public.

Firefighters said drivers became aggressive when asked to take a 15 to 20 minute detour over Evans Pass.

Volunteers also encountered cyclists who moved safety barriers to access the footpath, despite being told the area was closed due to the risk of further rockfall.

In a statement, the brigade said it was disappointed by the behaviour and had hoped for patience and understanding.

“Mother nature does not care if you are running late. When a road is closed, it is done so for the safety of all road users, pedestrians, and emergency service personnel,” the brigade said.

Christchurch City Council provided an update to Chris Lynch Media just before 4PM, saying geotechnical engineers had assessed Clifton Hill after a blocked wastewater pipe caused rocks to fall from the hillside.

A spokesperson said the assessment found there was a low risk of additional rockfalls.

One lane of Main Road has since reopened, allowing vehicles to travel in and out of Sumner, although significant delays are expected in both directions.

The council said traffic was being managed by traffic lights, which would be manually controlled during peak times to improve traffic flow in and out of Christchurch. The traffic system is expected to remain in place for several days while the area dries out.

The Coastal Pathway remains open, while Clifton Terrace is operating on one lane and may need to be closed at times to allow for repair work.

The council thanked residents and commuters for their patience and urged people to take care when travelling through the area.