Restoration of Mauao will begin next week, Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale announced during a community meeting on Thursday. The mountain has remained closed since January 22, following a landslide that killed six holidaymakers at a campground at its base.
- Timeline: Remedial work is scheduled to commence next week.
- Funding: The Tauranga City Council is funding the restoration via its risk reserve.
- Safety: Officials are investigating the installation of a protective bund at the foot of the mountain.
Mauao Restoration and Safety Measures
Mayor Drysdale informed more than 200 attendees at Club Mount Maunganui that the council is exploring alternatives to the shipping containers currently used as protective measures against slips. This includes the potential installation of a bund at the foot of the mountain.
The council confirmed that an external inquiry into the disaster will not delay the reopening of the summit track. However, officials stated that opening portions of the base track is currently not worthwhile, and a reopening date for the boat ramp has not yet been determined.
The landslide caused damage to dozens of walking tracks, and several facilities at the base of the mountain remain closed due to ongoing risks and slip damage.
Community Impact and Memorials
During the update session, residents shared memories of the area and expressed a strong desire for the Beachside Holiday Park to reopen. Residents noted the significant emotional toll of the closure, describing the mountain as a central part of everyday life.
Deputy Mayor Jen Scoular stated that the council is seeking input from families, the community, and the Mauao Trust regarding how to remember those lost in the landslide. No formal plan for a memorial currently exists.
Mauao trustee Jack Thatcher noted that while trust policy prohibits memorials on Mauao, the campground is not trust-owned and would be the likely location for such a tribute. He added that soil removed during the recovery operation would be returned and may be used in the proposed bunding.
Economic and Tourism Recovery
Bay of Plenty MP Tom Rutherford called for central government support, emphasizing that the mountain is a national drawcard. Act Party MP Cameron Luxton added that clear communication is essential to ensure the tourism sector knows the area is “open for business.”
City development programme lead Emily McLean announced plans to restore visitor confidence through events and infrastructure improvements. These include upgrades to playgrounds, toilet facilities, and the addition of public art.
Recovery manager Charlie Rahiri, who joined the project three weeks ago, said the council’s priority is to improve communication and consultation. Rahiri stated the recovery provides an opportunity to reshape how the mountain is protected and utilized.
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