Residents living near the southern end of Truman Lane, including the Mangatawa Marae and Papakāinga housing up to State Highway 2, have been asked to evacuate for their safety.
Following heavy rainfall last week, a slip occurred near a watermain pipe leading to the reservoir above the Marae. There is concern that the pipe may break if the land subsides further.
Tom McEntyre, Tauranga City Council Emergency Controller, stated that the evacuation order will remain in effect until the risk is thoroughly assessed.
One resident from the Papakāinga shared her experience of receiving a call while in town, informing her about the evacuation. She expressed her concern for her belongings left behind.
Approximately 100 residents residing on the hill are being evacuated, with around 40-50 houses being affected by the evacuation.
Resident Khiarne Taite described feeling terrified upon receiving the evacuation notice during breakfast. He expressed worry for the elderly residents living closer to the impending danger zone.
He mentioned that the evacuation caught them off guard and they had to leave immediately, with people being relocated to Baypark Stadium.
Council’s Involvement in Fatal Slip
On a separate note, it has been confirmed that council workers were present at the Mount Maunganui campground at the time of the tragic landslide incident.
There were prior warnings issued to Tauranga City Council and other agencies about potential landslips at Mauao before the unfortunate event took place.
Mayor Mahe Drysdale acknowledged the presence of council staff at the campground during the landslide. He assured that a detailed timeline of events leading up to the incident will be made public after thorough investigation.
Drysdale emphasized the importance of verifying all available information to understand the circumstances surrounding the event.
