Public opposition has forced two South Island councils to slash the cost of a scheme to protect part of a popular tourism destination.

Metres of shore at Punakaiki on the West Coast have been lost to erosion in the last few months. The town is home to the famous Pancake Rocks attraction.

Fifty ratepayers threatened by erosion previously baulked at the estimated $500,000 price tag for extending the seawall.

Buller Mayor Garry Howard said the district and regional councils were now putting forward a more economical proposal.

"The erosion protection wall being talked about has reduced to $350,000. It's still a big ask on a small community which is the heart of Punakaiki but this is pretty essential that we do have protection."

The lessee of the town's Buller District Council-owned beach camp recently warned that potential erosion meant the camp might not survive the winter.

However Mr Howard said a temporary solution has been put in place.

"Regional council has been proactive and put in a temporary stop bank, not of solid rock but of a gravel base, and there's discussions going on to look at a permanent solution."

A proposed extension to the town's seawall is about to be put to the Punakaiki community for consideration.