The track from the Oamaru Harbour around Cape Wanbrow to Boatman's Harbour has been closed since June last year by ongoing damage from heavy rain.
It gives access to some outstanding geological volcanic formations, is popular with both local people and visitors, but prone to erosion.
Closed by a rain storm early in 2007, it reopened in August of the same year after volunteers cleared and restored it. Heavy rain in June last year, followed by further damage early this year, has made the track inaccessible.
Most of the damage is erosion, slips on the track and blocked drains. Some rock had fallen near the start of the track.
Dr Harrowfield has been lobbying, with some success, groups in Oamaru for funding and help to restore the track then maintain it.
He only became aware it was closed earlier this year when delegates to an international geomorphology conference in Oamaru could not use it to see geological formations.
He discussed the issue with Waitaki District Council councillor Peter Garvan, Oamaru contractor Barry Monks, the Waitaki Development Board, Oamaru Rotary Club, and Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean, all of whom, along with others, supported repairing the track.
Dr Harrowfield said the development board indicated some funding could be available for the work.
"There are a lot of good, valid reasons why it should be restored, as it has in the past," he said.
The track was an asset for Oamaru and valued by both local people and visitors. It was publicised on a number of websites, even though it was closed.
Dr Harrowfield is looking at two options to restore the track, the only difference being using a compact mechanical digger to speed up the process, and was sure there would be plenty of volunteers who would help.
