Kawakawa Bay landslip causes concern for properties
Three properties in Kawakawa Bay have been deemed unsafe for residents to live in because of the danger posed by a major landslip.
Geotechnical experts have advised Manukau City Council that a landslip on Turei Hill just north of Kawakawa Bay is continuing to move.
Because of the potential that another major slip could happen at any time the properties are being served with dangerous building notices. Only one of the properties has been occupied in recent weeks and that resident is now moving out. Residents of the property at the top of the slip voluntarily moved out last week.
The road below the landslip has been closed since Sunday because of the potential risk to public safety. Approximately 500 cubic metres of earth came down onto the road on Sunday.
Manukau City Council Economic Director Rick Walden says the risk has increased significantly since then.
“The hillside is on the move, a much larger landslip could come down very quickly.
“Some people have been walking along the beach in front of the slip to get around it. This is very dangerous, people should stay away from the area.
“This is not an ordinary slip that covers the road and is then cleaned up quickly. Cracks in the rock face and continuing movement make us concerned that a huge landslip could happen,” Mr Walden says.
“The section of rock in the hill could collapse at any time and bring down thousands of tonnes of debris onto the road. If that happens the three properties below the landslip area may be affected by material coming down the road.”
Mr Walden says it is likely the road into Kawakawa Bay from the north will continue to be closed, however an update will be provided tomorrow.
“The council realises the closure of the road is frustrating and inconvenient for residents, however public safety has to be the number one priority.
“It is a long drive for people having to use the southern route out of the area so the council is investigating alternative transport options. We also want to make sure students can still go to school. There will be more details on this soon.
“Work is also being done to identify possible alternative routes for the road in case that becomes necessary,” Mr Walden says.
A public meeting was held at Kawakawa Bay last night to update the community on the slip. Regular updates are available through the council call centre (phone 262 5104) and at www.manukau.govt.nz
People driving to the Kawakawa Bay and Orere Point area should use the following alternative routes. Drivers should take care when using them.
State Highway 1 - State Highway 2 – East Coast Road via Kaiaua. From Clevedon: Monument Rd -Sky High Rd - Hunua Rd - Paparimu Rd – State Highway 2 – East Coast Road via Kaiaua.
Electronic message signs with updates and detour signs are up along roads in the area.
Background
Slip location - Turei Hill, 200m north of start of Kawakawa Bay settlement. Bounded by harbour and farm.
Slip history:
26 July - Heavy rain causes slips at Turei Hill. Warning signs were erected and the council’s roading contractor cleaned up the road after each event.
Slips have increased in magnitude since then.
Early August - a central barrier is placed to contain slip activity.
Sunday 24 August - approximate 500 cubic metres fell, pushing barrier across road and covering the road. Road closed to clear debris and ensure public safety.
Monday 25 August - slips continued so closure extended because of concern for safety of community and contractors.
Tuesday 26 August - significant development with large cracks appearing in the rock face down to road level. These generally line up with cracks above the slip face.
Wednesday 27 August - cracks have increased in width by an additional 10mm.
Thursday 28 August –slip movement of approximate 45mm over 12 hours.