Runoff a long-time problem

Some flood-ravaged Otumoetai home owners are angry at what they say is Tauranga City Council's failure to avert disasters.

Huge landslips caused by Wednesday's downpour left houses perched precariously on hilltops while homes in the valley were smashed by mudslides and flood waters.

Lemon Grove residents said water from their street poured into the valley, including Vale St, because there was no stormwater system to take run-off, only soak holes.

Infill housing and continued subdivision meant the problem had been developing over years.

"Every time it rains, this street turns into a river. The council has to put in a proper stormwater system," said Lemon Grove resident Peter Harnett.

Council flood recovery manager Terry Wynyard said the council continued to monitor stormwater drainage.

A register of evacuees has been set up and Housing New Zealand, IRD and insurance company staff are at the Tauranga office of Work and Income to give advice. The office will be open today from 9am to 4pm.

Mr Wynyard said owners of condemned homes in Otumoetai would be given time to say goodbye and Fire Service staff would remove their most precious possessions before the houses were demolished or shifted.

He said there were "serious concerns" about 12 homes but that list could grow.

Around 65 houses in Otumoetai were being assessed for flood and subsequent damage.