Geotechnical experts are continuing to assess the ongoing landslide risk at Mauao in Mount Maunganui, with safety concerns keeping key public access points closed weeks after a deadly slope collapse that killed six people in January.
Pilot Bay’s boat ramp at the base of the maunga remains off limits to the public, while extensive cordons and permanent fencing have been installed around unstable areas following the significant slips that occurred during extreme weather late last month.
Experts advising local authorities say there is still a high risk of further slips near the main landslide site, meaning areas that would normally be popular with walkers, swimmers and local businesses must stay restricted until more confidence is gained in slope stability.
Authorities have noted that there are dozens of slip scars across Mauao, particularly along the popular base track, indicating widespread ground instability that warrants caution.
The closure of public spaces has profound implications for residents, visitors and local businesses in Mount Maunganui and Tauranga, especially as summer tourism continues. While restrictions aim to protect lives, they also limit access to recreational sites and waterfront areas.
An automated alarm system has been installed in some areas to warn of sudden land movement, and precautions such as shipping containers and fencing have been placed beside footpaths to help prevent debris from reaching public routes.
With heavy rain still a trigger for potential landslides, geotechnical teams plan to continue monitoring and modelling ground conditions before recommending whether public access can safely resume. The priority remains mitigating risk while balancing the community’s desire to return to familiar spaces at the maunga’s base.
An independent review is also underway to examine all aspects leading up to the Mauao landslide, with the goal of learning lessons and improving future hazard planning and response.
For Radio Waatea audiences, the continued assessments underscore the challenges facing communities when natural hazards intersect with public use areas, and the critical role of expert advice in guiding recovery and safety decisions.
