Mauao summit track restoration 30% complete but new slip ‘halts the entire progress’

Progress on restoring the popular Mauao summit track in Mount Maunganui has reached a 30% completion mark, but a recent slip has brought the entire effort to a standstill. The setback comes as the community continues to grapple with the grief and scars left by a devastating landslide in January that tragically claimed six lives.

Five months after the fatal incident, the community is engaged in a healing process, yet the impact of that day remains palpable. The restoration of the track, a beloved feature of the iconic destination, is seen as a significant step in the community's recovery.

However, the new slip presents a considerable challenge, halting the momentum gained in the repair work. Details about the extent of the new slip and its implications for the timeline of the restoration are expected to be further elaborated upon.

This report is the first in a three-part series by journalist Bijou Johnson, aiming to delve into the aftermath of the landslide and the ongoing recovery efforts in Mount Maunganui.