The Whakatāne District is prone to landslides and escarpments, which can occur without warning. It is important to understand their meaning and what to be aware of.
Landslides occur when a large amount of rock, soil, or other materials slide down a slope. These events can happen during natural disasters, such as heavy rainfall, earthquakes, and volcanic activity. Human activities like tree removal or leaking water pipes can also trigger landslides.
An escarpment is a long and steep slope or cliff that separates two areas of land that have different heights.
In recent times, the Whakatāne District has been subject to several high rainfall weather events, triggering a number of landslides within the escarpment slopes that form the backdrop of Whakatāne and Ōhope Beach.
Signs that may indicate a possible landslide
It's important to be aware of certain signs that could indicate a risk of landslide. If there has been an earthquake, significant rainfall over an extended period of time, or long dry spells, be alert, especially when driving near embankments along roadsides.
Be prepared by developing a plan with your family/ whānau /flatmates/friends so you know what to do in an emergency. This can be things like evacuation plans and having a grab bag ready to go ahead of time.
It's also recommended you regularly inspect your property for signs of unstable land, especially after long dry spells, earthquakes or heavy rainfall. Visit the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management Group to understand what to look out for.
If you are concerned about any of these changes, contact us on 07 306 0500 (24 hours) with location details so the area involved can be inspected.
If there is immediate danger or serious threat to life, call 111.
It's also a good idea to keep your insurance records up to date and understand what is and isn't covered in your policy.
What to do if you think a landslide is about to happen
If you are concerned, evacuate your home or business immediately. Take your grab bag and pets if you can do so quickly. Check-in on neighbours and those with disabilities.
Contact us on 07 306 0500 (24 hours) with location details so the area involved can be inspected.
If there is immediate danger or serious threat to life, call 111.
What to do after a landslide
Do not return to your property until it has been properly inspected and authorities give the all-clear.
For more information on what to do after a landslide event, head to the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management Group or Get Ready.
What to do if you live or work near an escarpment
Whakatāne and Ōhope residents living or working close to escarpments should always remain alert for any signs of escarpment instability.
It's recommended that if the escarpment face in the vicinity of houses or workplaces shows any signs of movement, the following precautions be taken:
- Stay out of rooms on the escarpment side of buildings, where possible.
- Sleep in a room on the opposite side from the escarpment.
- If you are concerned about escarpment stability, consider self-evacuating to a location where there is no landslide hazard.
If any signs of soil movement or unstable trees are noted on the escarpment, contact us on 07 306 0500 (24 hours) with location details so the area can be inspected.