Latest updates
Inquiry to report back in February 2027
10 September 2026
The Government Inquiry acknowledges Cabinet's decision to extend its delivery date, with a final report now due to the Government by 18 February 2027.
"We know how much this Inquiry matters to the families who lost loved ones, to iwi and hapū, and to the wider community," says the Inquiry chair, Sir Mark O’Regan.
"We recognise that extending the reporting date may be disappointing for some. We are grateful for the continued patience, trust and engagement we have received as we complete this important work."
The Inquiry continues to make steady progress but is considering a substantial volume of evidence, comprising about 20,000 documents.
"Taking the time to properly examine and assess this material is essential if we are to produce a thorough, independent and evidence-based report that New Zealanders can have confidence in," says Sir Mark.
Following an assessment of progress and the work still required, the Inquiry advised that additional time was needed to fully consider all available evidence and fulfil its responsibilities under the Terms of Reference.
The Inquiry's work is separate from the Davison Review recently released by Tauranga City Council. While the Inquiry is required to have regard to the review's findings, it is not bound by them.
"The Inquiry has its own Terms of Reference, evidence base and reporting responsibilities. Our role is broader in scope, and we must reach our own independent findings based on all of the evidence before us," says Sir Mark.
The Inquiry is now moving from evidence gathering into detailed analysis, deliberations and preparation of its final report.
"Our objective remains unchanged: to establish how the fatal landslides occurred, examine how risks were managed, and identify lessons that may help prevent similar tragedies in the future. We remain committed to delivering a robust and independent report that honours the significance of this event and the people affected by it."
Government Inquiry receives Davison review
19 August 2026
Our sincere sympathy remains with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and everyone affected by January's landslides.
The Government Inquiry has received Tauranga City Council's external review, led by Hon Paul Davison KC, into the landslide at Mauao Mount Maunganui.
The council's review and the Government Inquiry are independent processes, each with their own terms of reference. Although the Inquiry must consider the Davison review, it will reach its own conclusions and recommendations in due course.
The Government Inquiry’s scope covers both the Mauao and Welcome Bay Road landslides, and the actions of all relevant agencies, not just Tauranga City Council. The Inquiry will consider the Davison review alongside all other evidence gathered across both landslides.
Government Inquiry extends public submissions period
14 August 2026
Public submissions for the Government Inquiry into the Fatal Landslides in Tauranga have been extended for another three weeks.
The Inquiry is giving members of the public extra time to provide information and share their perspectives on the fatal landslides that occurred at Mauao Mount Maunganui and Welcome Bay Road, Pāpāmoa on 22 January 2026. Public submissions will now close at 5pm on 4 September.
Inquiry Chair Sir Mark O'Regan says a high calibre of submissions has already been received, and further contributions from the public are welcome.
"We have received thoughtful and informative submissions from people with a wide range of knowledge, experience and perspectives," Sir Mark says.
"Those submissions are already valuable in helping the Inquiry build a fuller picture of the circumstances surrounding these tragic events and the lessons that can be learned from them. Extending the submissions period will allow more people to share information that may assist the Inquiry's work."
The Inquiry wants to hear from anyone who has information about:
- how the landslides occurred
- whether agencies took appropriate steps to manage any risks immediately before the two fatal landslides, including efforts to warn and evacuate people
- lessons that can be learned to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
People can make submissions through the online portal and can also provide supporting material such as photographs, video footage and other relevant information that has not already been provided to Police or other investigating agencies.
Make a submission (consultations.dia.govt.nz)
Government Inquiry calls for public submissions
21 July 2026
The Government Inquiry into the Fatal Landslides in Tauranga wants to hear from members of the public who have information on the landslides that occurred on 22 January 2026 at Mauao Mount Maunganui and Welcome Bay Road, Papamoa.
Submissions open on Tuesday 21 July 2026 and close at 5pm on 11 August. People can also use the portal to submit video footage and photos and share information relevant to the Inquiry’s terms of reference, including drone footage and rain gauge measurements.
The Inquiry Chair, the Honourable Sir Mark O’Regan, says the Inquiry wants to hear from anyone who has information about:
- how the landslides occurred
- whether agencies took appropriate steps to manage any risks immediately before the two fatal landslides, including any efforts to warn and evacuate people.
- It also wants the public to help the Inquiry identify any lessons learnt which will prevent similar tragedies happening again.
Sir Mark says the Inquiry recognises the significant impact these landslides have had on the families and friends of the victims, iwi and communities across Tauranga and beyond.
“Our thoughts remain with everyone who has experienced loss as a result of these tragic events,” he says. “This submissions process is an important opportunity for the public to share their experiences and perspectives."
Sir Mark says the Inquiry is interested in any information that hasn’t already been provided to police. Information on insurance claims or matters relating to individual properties, or information about rescue and recovery at either site are outside the scope of the Inquiry’s terms of reference.
The Inquiry has already undertaken site visits, met with affected families and iwi, and has begun gathering evidence. The Inquiry is one of four investigations into the landslides. A Police and Coronial process is underway. In addition, both Tauranga City Council and WorkSafe New Zealand have commissioned investigations into the landslides.
Progress Update from the Inquiry
15 May 2026
The Government Inquiry into Fatal Landslides in Tauranga has begun its work with members visiting key sites and talking with families and iwi.
Sir Mark O’Regan says one of the first priorities was to reach out to the family members of those who tragically lost their lives and iwi and to visit key sites.
He says the Inquiry will work to identify exactly what happened and what can be learnt to reduce the risk of similar tragedies in the future.
Sir Mark says the Inquiry will keep family members informed throughout the Inquiry.
A pōhiri has been held with members meeting representatives from Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāi te Rangi, Ngāti Pukenga and the Mauao Trust. Also present were iwi representatives on Nga Poutiriao, the management body for Mauao, including a representative from Waitaha Bay of Plenty.
Tom Powell and Karen Jones have been appointed as a Counsel Assists on the Inquiry bringing extensive experience to the team. Tom led investigations at the Infected Blood Inquiry (UK) before returning to New Zealand where he worked on the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, leading the Inquiry’s legal and investigations function. He is a barrister based in Wellington at Bowen Chambers. Karen has experience in investigations and litigation involving serious and sensitive matters, including coronial inquests. Most recently, she was part of the legal team assisting the Dilworth Independent Inquiry.
Gillian Ferguson has been appointed as the Executive Director to lead the Secretariat for the Inquiry. Gillian is a senior public sector leader, with inquiry and public policy expertise.
The Inquiry notes that the Tauranga City Council has commissioned a review of the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park Landslide. The Inquiry may have regard to the review's report but will not be bound by it. The Inquiry also understands that the Police, on behalf of the Coroner, and WorkSafe have commenced inquiries, which are ongoing.
