The CTV Families Group welcomes the Government’s announcement appointing a retired Supreme Court judge to lead the independent inquiry into the Tauranga landslides. This decision reflects the seriousness of the tragedy and the clear public expectation that the circumstances leading to the loss of life must be examined with full independence, transparency, and rigour. 

For fifteen years, I have advocated on behalf of the CTV Families Group, which represents the families of the 115 people who died in the CTV building collapse during the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake. That experience has demonstrated the critical importance of independent scrutiny and meaningful family participation in the aftermath of major lossoflife events. The lessons from CTV are directly relevant to the current situation. 

In the aftermath of the Mount Maunganui landslide, we submitted a Ministerial Briefing setting out why the tragedy met every threshold for the highest level of independent inquiry. The loss of life, the strong indications of systemic failings, and the need for complete independence from any agencies that may be implicated all point unequivocally to the necessity of such an inquiry. 

Why the Recommendations Matter 

The inquiry into the Tauranga landslides has the power to make findings of fault, and its conclusions will sit alongside a parallel police investigation. Any findings will therefore play a pivotal role in establishing the factual record, clarifying where responsibility may lie, and informing decisions about whether further action, including potential criminal proceedings, is warranted. Ensuring the integrity and accessibility of the inquiry process is essential not only for the families but for public confidence in the system as a whole. 

Priority Recommendations 

To support a process capable of uncovering the full truth and protecting the interests of those most affected, the CTV Families Group highlights three essential measures: 

1. Dedicated legal representation for families — Governmentfunded legal support is vital to ensure families can participate meaningfully, understand the implications of emerging evidence, and have confidence that their interests are protected throughout both the Government inquiry and the police investigation.
2. Strong whistleblower protections — Individuals with relevant information must feel safe to come forward. Robust protections will help ensure that critical evidence is not withheld due to fear of repercussions.
3. An open and inclusive inquiry scope — The inquiry chair should be empowered to receive any submissions or evidence that may be relevant to his work. This flexibility is crucial for identifying systemic issues and ensuring no line of inquiry is prematurely closed.

The Broader Public Interest 

The Tauranga landslides have had a profound impact on families and the wider community. A process that is independent but inaccessible, or transparent but constrained, risks repeating past failures. A process that is fully equipped, inclusive, and supported, however, can deliver answers, accountability, and lasting improvements to public safety. 

The CTV Families Group’s recommendations are offered to strengthen public confidence, ensure the inquiry is capable of addressing the full range of issues that may have contributed to the tragedy, and honour those who have been lost.

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