Tauranga Community Unites in Aroha for Mount Maunganui Landslide Victims
In a powerful display of community solidarity, hundreds gathered at Coronation Park on Thursday evening to honour the six lives lost in the devastating Mount Maunganui landslide, demonstrating the strength of Aotearoa's collective spirit in times of tragedy.
A Community's Heart Opens in Grief
The vigil, hosted by Tauranga City Council, created a sacred space for whānau, friends, and neighbours to come together in aroha, supporting one another while acknowledging the tireless work of emergency responders and volunteers who continue their mission to return loved ones to their families.
"Our community is grieving deeply," said Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale. "This is a time for us to come together with compassion, to honour the lives lost, and to wrap support around those who have been affected."
The ceremony began at 7pm, with a karakia at 8pm, embodying the inclusive values that define our communities. The mayor emphasised that there is no right way to grieve, welcoming all forms of participation, from silent reflection to standing alongside whānau and neighbours.
Remembering the Victims
The landslide claimed six precious lives, each representing a story cut short, dreams unfulfilled, and families forever changed. Among them was Max Furse-Kee, formally identified on what would have been his 16th birthday, and Måns Loke Bernhardsson, a 20-year-old Swedish tourist exploring our beautiful country.
The other victims have been named as Lisa Anne Maclennan, 50, Jacqualine Suzanne Wheeler, 71, Susan Doreen Knowles, 71, and Sharon Maccanico, 15. Each name represents a life that touched others, contributing to the rich tapestry of our diverse community.
Community Response Demonstrates Our Values
The response from the public has been overwhelming, with fundraising pages raising tens of thousands of dollars for affected families. A Givealittle page for Morrinsville teacher Lisa Maclennan raised almost $13,000 within 13 hours, while Max Furse-Kee's memorial page collected over $35,000 in less than 15 hours.
These donations reflect more than financial support; they represent our community's commitment to caring for one another, embodying the progressive values of inclusion and mutual aid that define modern New Zealand society.
Safety First Approach to Recovery
Recovery efforts have been temporarily paused twice due to safety concerns, with advanced monitoring technology triggering suspensions when land movement is detected. This cautious approach, while frustrating for families awaiting closure, demonstrates our commitment to protecting those working tirelessly at the scene.
Detective Inspector Lew Warner confirmed that the safety of all staff remains the top priority, reflecting the responsible approach that characterises New Zealand's emergency response protocols.
Seeking Answers Through Transparency
In a move towards accountability and learning, Tauranga City Council has announced an independent review into the events leading up to the landslide. Local iwi Ngāi Te Rangi are also seeking a thorough investigation, ensuring that Māori perspectives and traditional knowledge are included in understanding this tragedy.
"The landslide and its impacts clearly represent a serious and significant incident," Mayor Drysdale stated. "It is important that we have a clear understanding of the facts so that we can ensure the future safety of our community."
This commitment to transparency and inclusive investigation reflects our progressive values and recognition that diverse perspectives strengthen our understanding and response to environmental challenges.
Moving Forward Together
As Tauranga continues to process this tragedy, the community vigil served as a reminder of what makes Aotearoa special: our ability to come together across all backgrounds, supporting one another with aroha and determination to build a safer, more resilient future.
The landslide may have shaken our community, but it has also revealed the unbreakable bonds that connect us all, regardless of where we come from or how long we have called this place home.