Concerns are mounting over whether the removal of large exotic trees, including English and Holm oaks, from Mount Maunganui may have contributed to the landslip that struck Adams Avenue in January 2026 following days of intense rainfall.
During the January 16–22 storm, many significant slips were reported on steep, exposed slopes where vegetation had previously been cleared, reigniting debate about the stabilising role of mature trees with deep root systems.
According to some commentators on social media, in June 2023 Tauranga City Council removed eight large exotic trees from Mauao using helicopters as part of the Mauao Historic Reserve Management Plan, which mandates the gradual removal of non-native species to restore the hill’s native ecology in line with priorities set by the Tupuna Maunga Authority.
While the council acknowledged at the time that mechanical disturbance on steep slopes can trigger instability, critics argue that the loss of deep-rooted trees may have reduced the land’s resistance to slips during extreme weather.
The Adams Avenue landslip occurred shortly after 9.30am on January 22, burying campervans and an ablution block, with search and rescue operations continuing as questions persist over whether ecological restoration efforts inadvertently heightened the risk.
Was the removal of English Oaks from Mount Maunganui a contributing factor to the recent Land Slide in January 2026?
The removal of English Oaks and other trees generally increase the risk and severity of landslips has been a subject of significant concern, particularly…
— Trudi (@TrudiNewZealand) January 22, 2026
The landslides may have been the result of co-governance of the Mount. Maori demanded removal of large non-native trees recently at the main slip site: pic.twitter.com/2uvUHBFNvw
— Cam Slater (@kaiviti_cam) January 22, 2026
First they came for the trees, and I did nothing because I was not a tree.
Exactly! They are communist destroying our history.
Mature exotics provide vital habitat, carbon storage, soil stability and community amenity; wholesale clearing risks erosion, wildlife loss and carbon release while native replacements take decades to mature.
Tupuna Maunga Authority should be held accountable for this loss of life and the national program be halted.