The QLRA is a detailed technical assessment that evaluates the likelihood and consequences of future landslide and rockfall events and helps identify measures that may reduce risk to tolerable levels.
The assessment concludes that Mauao is an active landslide and rockfall environment and identifies the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park and Mount Hot Pools as the highest-risk locations. The QLRA found that while landslide and rockfall risks are lower in Adams Avenue, the Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service building and parts of Pilot Bay, some level of risk remains. The report recommends further detailed rockfall modelling to better understand the extent and behaviour of potential rockfall hazards and to help refine future risk management and mitigation measures.
Adams Avenue has reopened and remains open under current conditions. The Pilot Bay boat ramp remains closed under Level 3 of the Trigger Action Response Plan (TARP). Work is continuing to assess options for restoring access, with any reopening subject to further technical assessment and appropriate risk management measures.
While the QLRA report is an important step forward, it is only one component of the broader decision-making process. Charlie Rahiri, Recovery Manager, says the report provides valuable information to support informed and evidence-based decision making.
"Recovery is about understanding risk, considering all available options, and making decisions that balance public safety, community access, cultural values and the long-term future of this area. The QLRA is an important tool that will help guide those discussions," says Charlie.
"Just as importantly, this report provides a foundation for the next phase of discussions. Together with the Mauao Trust, we'll continue engaging with the community, mana whenua, businesses and stakeholders to better understand their perspectives as we work through future options for this area."
The report forms part of the wider programme of work supporting recovery and reopening decisions around Mauao.
The assessment identifies the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park and Mount Hot Pools as the highest-risk locations within the study area due to their proximity to Mauao's slopes, high visitor numbers, and potential exposure to both landslide and rockfall hazards. The holiday park and hot pools remain closed following extensive landslide damage sustained during the January weather event.
However, Charlie stresses that the report does not determine the future of any facility.
"No decisions have been made about the future of either the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park or the Mount Hot Pools. This report is about understanding risk and identifying mitigation scenarios. Any future decisions will consider a range of factors, including geotechnical investigations, community needs, cultural values, practicalities and cost."
Bay Venues Chief Executive Chad Hooker says the QLRA will help shape the future of the Mount Hot Pools by providing a clearer picture of what could be possible for the site.
"The Mount Hot Pools is a much-loved community facility and we know how important it is for people to have clarity about what happens next. This report is an important step towards that," says Chad.
"The QLRA, together with other detailed site and infrastructure assessments, is going to help us better understand the risks and what work may need to be done before we can consider reopening. Safety is our top priority and we will continue to be guided by the technical experts and work closely with Council and the Mauao Trust every step of the way."
The Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service is planning to reopen its clubhouse in late September following extensive assessment, monitoring and risk management work undertaken since the January landslide event.
Further geotechnical investigations are continuing at the main campground landslide area to improve understanding of the factors contributing to slope instability and to help inform long-term risk management options.
More information: www.tauranga.govt.nz/mauao-landslide