Work on Dee St has been paused after contractors discovered a possible archaeological feature while digging in for a new stormwater main.

Invercargill City Council contractors have been working to replace the ageing and undersized stormwater network along Dee St for the past two weeks.

Council Group Manager Infrastructure Erin Moogan said during the course of the work, contractors had discovered an archaeological feature.

“This will result in a delay in completion of the works and as we are entering the busy Easter period the decision has been made to cease work on site until after the holiday break,” Moogan said.

Dee Street will be returned to two-way traffic during this period and the yellow bollards placed in the northbound lane will remain except at all intersections along Dee St, allowing the traffic to take turns into these roads, she said.

The traffic lights at the intersection of Bay Road and Dee St are now functioning.

Work on the project is expected to recommence in the week of 17 April, Moogan said.