Deadly Mount Maunganui landslide still active and moving

Six additional slip events have been recorded on the deadly landslide above the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park since last weekend.

Tauranga City Council recovery manager Charlie Rahiri said geotechnical specialists had identified fresh cracking and evidence of groundwater emerging from the slope, which indicated it's highly susceptible to further movement.

He said it was now considered active and ongoing and this was why a cautious, evidence-based approach remained essential.

"Our monitoring systems are designed to detect changes in slope behaviour and provide early warning when conditions change. The recent movement triggered established response procedures, allowing us to act quickly and put appropriate safety measures in place.

"While this movement is a reminder that Mauao remains an active environment, it does not change our commitment to restoring access where it is safe to do so. We've made substantial progress over recent months and will continue to be guided by specialist advice as recovery work progresses."

He said repair works on the base track Te Ara Tūtanga were continuing as planned, with other known landslide sites not currently showing signs of "significant change".

Initial assessments had also not identified damage to the summit 4WS Motukauri track, but those inspections would continue.

"Public safety remains our priority. We will continue to work closely with our geotechnical advisers and mana whenua partners to ensure decisions are informed by the latest information and reflect the long-term wellbeing of the maunga and those who use it."

The closure of Adams Avenue would remain in place for the foreseeable future while experts continued to assess the site and monitor conditions.

Residents and visitors were asked to respect all closures, barriers and signage and avoid entering restricted areas.