Tauranga City Council has extended the deadline on its external review into January’s tragic landslide at the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, saying it will allow more time for all relevant information to be sourced and carefully considered.
The external review was commissioned by Tauranga’s Mayor and Councillors in February and is being undertaken by retired High Court Judge, Hon Paul Davison KC.
While the Terms of Reference originally anticipated the report would be completed by 30 June, that timeframe has been extended until the end of July.
Mayor Mahé Drysdale says he supports the extension to ensure the review is completed comprehensively.
“This is a vital piece of work and it’s critical that it is done thoroughly and carefully. We fully support the independent reviewer taking the time needed to ensure the findings of the report are robust and well-founded,” said the Mayor.
The external review is examining the circumstances leading up to the landslide at the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, including decision-making processes and the systems in place at the time. It will also consider any lessons or improvements needed to strengthen future safety.
Mayor Drysdale said that while the Terms of Reference focused on the immediate period leading up to the landslide, the scope was set up to allow all relevant information to be considered, within any timeframe, if Mr Davison believes it is appropriate.
“We know people want answers, and we remain committed to being open and transparent as this external review process continues,” he said.
The external review was initiated by Tauranga City Council and is separate from the Government Inquiry as well as investigations currently underway by the Coroner, Police and WorkSafe.
The findings of the external review will be publicly released once complete, and Council will provide a further update as soon as that timing is confirmed.
In the meantime, the Council says its focus remains on supporting the ongoing recovery of Mauao and the wider city following January’s severe weather event.
“Our thoughts remain with the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives on 22 January, and we continue to acknowledge the deep impact the tragic events have had on our community,” says Mayor Drysdale.
Mount Maunganui landslide review deadline extended
