Mount Maunganui landslide report delayed till end of July

Six people died in January after a section of the maunga collapsed into a campground. Photo: Kim Baker Wilson / RNZ

The release of the external review into the Mount Maunganui landslide has been delayed by a month until the end of July.

Six people died after a section of the maunga collapsed into a campground during extreme weather in late January.

A review commissioned by the Tauranga City Council is being done by retired High Court Judge Paul Davison KC.

The review examines the circumstances leading up to the landslide, including decision-making.

Mayor Mahé Drysdale said he supported the extension to ensure the review was done comprehensively.

"This is a vital piece of work and it's critical that it is done thoroughly and carefully. We fully support the independent reviewer taking the time needed to ensure the findings of the report are robust and well-founded," Drysdale said.

While the review was focused on the period immediately before the landslide, the scope allowed all relevant information to be considered within any timeframe, he said.

The council remained focused on supporting the recovery of Mauao and the wider city, he said.

Work to restore Mauao began in May. The council earlier said it was expected to take four months to restore public access to the summit.

Almost 100 days since the Mt Maunganui landslide that killed six holiday-makers, the first community meeting with council takes place tonight.

A petition has been launched as pressure mounts for more information, engagement and involvement.

A visitor staying near the Mount Hot Pools has described confusion and fear as a landslide smashed into campervans and tents at Mauao.