Geologists and geotechnical engineers have provided their latest assessments to Tauranga City Council after inspecting the Mauao landslide and affected walking tracks.
Four weeks ago, a major landslide went through the Mount Maunganui Beach Holiday park tragically claiming six lives.
Engineers from WSP found multiple landslides have occurred on Mauao with a total of 42 landslides inspected on the walking tracks.
Twenty-four landslides fall within the “Moderate, Moderate–Severe, and Severe” categories, indicating locations where track reinstatement is likely to require more than simple cleanup.
Twelve of the landslides are in the “Severe” category, and the impacts of these generally involve high complexity, higher cost, longer timeframes, and often require staged or multi-disciplinary interventions.
Smart monitoring system installed on Mauao hillside
WSP has installed a smart monitoring system on the hillside to keep a close eye on any early signs of ground movement.
The system uses seven cameras along with sensors fixed into the ground to continuously track what’s happening on the slope.
- Six cameras focus on specific high risk areas.
- One additional camera provides a wide view across the eastern side of Mauao and can zoom in when something needs a closer look.
Behind the scenes, a computer system analyses the camera footage in real time. If it detects movement above a set threshold, it automatically triggers an alarm on site notifying anybody within the vicinity and so experts can investigate straight away.
The ground based sensors add another layer of protection by measuring movement, changes in orientation, crack development, and rainfall intensity.
Together, these tools give experts clear, up to the minute picture of how the slope is behaving, allowing them to respond quickly and help keep the community safe.
As a result, a Trigger Action Response Plan has also been developed for this site and real time monitoring is now occurring.
Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service club
The surf club remains red placarded, however discussion is ongoing between council and the club to determine the processes need to be put in place before the club can open again.
He Maimai Aroha centre closure
He Maimai Aroha Community Care Centre will close at 1pm on 22 February.
Established in the wake of the tragic landslide on Mauao on 22 January 2026, the centre has supported those affected and provided a dedicated space for reflection over the past weeks.
All condolences shared at the centre will be respectfully archived. A separate plan is being developed for the future location or disposition of the condolence boards in consultation with the families.
We will continue to keep stakeholders and our community updated on next steps and timeframes.