Following the tragic landslide on Mauao on Thursday, 22 January 2026, our community continues to feel the profound loss and the shock of what has occurred. In support of those affected and to provide a dedicated space for reflection, we have established the He Maimai Aroha Community Care Centre.
The centre is at 249 Maunganui Road (former Bay City Cinemas). The purpose of this space is to offer the community a quiet, respectful environment to come together, reflect, and pay tribute to those who lost their lives.
Opening hours are:
Thursday, 5 February: 9am – 9pm
Friday, 6 February (Waitangi Day): 9am – 1pm
Saturday, 7 February: 9.30am – 1pm
Sunday, 8 February: 9.30am – 1pm
From Monday, 9 February, weekday opening hours are 9.30am – 5pm. The centre will open 9.30am – 1pm on weekends.
Visitors will be able to leave messages of support, sit in shared silence, and find comfort among others affected by this event. The centre is intended to provide stability, calm, and a sense of collective support at a time when many are grieving and seeking connection.
We kindly ask that people do not bring donations of money, food, or household goods to the centre. Those wishing to contribute can do so through Acorn Foundation NZ: www.acornfoundation.org.nz
Taking care of the Mauao temporary memorial site
Memorial message boards and non-organic mementos that were situated at the memorial site on the corner of Leinster Avenue and The Mall will be relocated to He Maimai Aroha so people have easy access to continue to see them.
New message boards are now located on the grassed area on the corner of Marine Parade and Adams Avenue.
Tauranga City Council staff are maintaining the memorial site as a mark of respect. As panels with condolence messages become full, they are being relocated to He Maimai Aroha.
A long-term solution for the messages will be decided in due course in conversation with the community.
Condolence messages
An online condolence form has been created below for those wishing to pass on their aroha who are unable to be there in person.