Western Bay stands with those impacted by weather related tragedy
Western Bay of Plenty District Mayor James Denyer has expressed his condolences following confirmation that two people have died after a landslide struck a home on Welcome Bay Road during yesterday’s severe weather event.
“On behalf of our Council and our communities, I want to extend our deepest sympathy to the whānau, friends and loved ones of the two people who have tragically lost their lives. This is an unimaginable loss, and our thoughts are with everyone affected,” says Mayor James.
The incident remains Police‑led, with support from FENZ, Urban Search and Rescue and geotechnical specialists. Several nearby properties were also evacuated as a precaution.
Mayor James also acknowledges the significant impacts felt across the wider Bay of Plenty and Tauranga Moana, including the major slip at Mauao, where emergency services continue search operations for several unaccounted‑for people.
“Right across our rohe and our neighbouring city of Tauranga, people have been deeply affected. What has unfolded at Mauao, and in Welcome Bay, is devastating. Our communities are hurting, and our hearts are with everyone waiting for news or supporting loved ones.”
During the severe weather event, approximately 80 people self‑evacuated to community‑led hubs in Waihī Beach and Te Puke, including evacuees from the affected Waihī Beach campgrounds.
Forty-nine people remained in hubs overnight on Thursday, 31 evacuees were billeted with local families, reflecting the strong community spirit that continues to shine through during difficult times.
The Waihī Beach RSA supported 73 campground evacuees, with capacity to host more if required
“Once again, our community has shown extraordinary support,” says Mayor James.
“People opened their homes at short notice, hubs activated quickly, and neighbours checked on neighbours. This is who we are as the Western Bay.”
With ground saturation still extremely high, land stability remains a significant concern across the District. Slips continue to affect access in multiple locations, and Council is taking a cautious, safety‑first approach to assessments and site visits.
Five rapid‑assessment teams are now in the field, split across two key focus areas of flood‑related building assessments in Waihī Beach and Athenree, and geotechnical assessments for slip‑affected areas.
“Teams across the District are continuing to respond to slips, flooding, damaged infrastructure and welfare needs. The past couple of days have been challenging for our District and the wider region. While some people are beginning to return to normal routines, these events have been life‑changing for others.”
“I want to acknowledge the efforts of emergency services, contractors, volunteers, iwi partners and Council staff — both in the Emergency Operations Centre and out in the field — and the way our communities have supported one another during this time.”
As conditions improve and more damage becomes visible, Council expects to receive a growing number of service requests.
Those that pose the greatest risk to people and property will be prioritised. Residents are encouraged to continue reporting slips, flooding, blocked drains and other issues via 0800 926 732, or the Antenno app.
For the latest on road closures and other key information visit Council’s dedicated weather event page - Weather Event Information Hub - Western Bay of Plenty District Council – and follow the Facebook page for updates: Facebook.
