Tauranga City Council has launched a new public website providing centralised access to documents and updates relating to the Mauao landslide.

The new site, Mauao landslide > Home, provides a central source of documents and updates related to the slip.

The council said it would help meet a high volume of information requests received under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act (LGOIMA) since the landslide.

The first set of materials — primarily geotechnical reports and associated documentation — is now available, with further information to be added as it is prepared.

Council chief executive Marty Grenfell said proactive publication is an important step in ensuring openness for those directly affected and for the wider public.

“We are committed to being open with our community. That means sharing as much information as we can, while preserving the integrity of ongoing investigations and the privacy and safety of everyone involved,” Grenfell said.

“Our intention is to provide a timely, open source of information that the public can access.”

Tauranga City Council chief executive Marty Grenfell. Photo / Dean Purcell.

The council emphasised the cultural and emotional significance of Mauao, acknowledging the impact of the tragedy on bereaved families, tangata whenua, local residents and the broader community.

Stakeholders, including the Office of the Ombudsman, have been notified about the proactive release of information.

Consistent with LGOIMA requirements, documents are published with redactions only where there is “good reason for withholding”, and each redaction is clearly marked with the relevant legislative clause.

Further details about LGOIMA’s principle of availability and statutory withholding grounds are also accessible on the website.

Multiple independent inquiries into the landslide remain active, including investigations by the Coroner, WorkSafe, Police and an independent review led by former High Court Judge Paul Davison KC.

A central government inquiry is also forthcoming. Given these ongoing processes, the council said it would not provide further comment at this time.