We know land stability remains a concern for many in the Muriwai community, so the recent landslide on Motutara Road may have been unsettling. It’s natural to have questions, and we want to keep you informed.
Landslide status
The slip occurred on private land and was isolated to one property. Our geotechnical experts have assessed the area, and are also confident in our category and risk assessment. Our Compliance team is now working with the whānau affected to support their next steps. It’s no doubt been a distressing experience for them.
Auckland Transport (AT) is already working on urgent plans to repair the slip affecting the road and will provide an update as soon as details are finalised. In the meantime, the road remains open with one-lane access, and monitoring is ongoing.
As many of you know, a longer-term stormwater project for the area is in the pipeline and is progressing steadily. It’s currently on track to begin construction in early 2026, with more detail expected soon from our Healthy Waters team (who are in communication with the AT project team).
General landslide risk
As locals are aware, the natural landform and the presence of underground springs in Muriwai means that ongoing movement of the land and slips are expected from time to time, particularly during the wetter periods. The modelling undertaken in the 2023 GHD geotechnical study remains valid, and small landslides of this nature are likely to continue.
Category 3 buy-outs and mitigation support are addressing situations with a serious risk to life. Outside of that, we are planning on working with Auckland communities like yours to help you understand what it means to live in an area with these risks, and what you can do about it.
In the meantime, council’s chief engineer has provided some expert advice on landslips that would be very useful for homeowners living in the area. Please check out these resources at the Landslides website.
While this is an isolated event, we know that events like this may be triggering for communities. Even if this did not impact you directly, you can reach out to us for support. Find out more on OurAuckland.
Thank you for your ongoing engagement with us, and with your local representatives. We’ll continue to share updates as more information becomes available.
