9 July. By Rodney Councillor Greg Sayers. We must keep Muriwai’s recovery moving. When I spoke at Auckland Council recently, I called for staff to accelerate projects that will help Muriwai continue its recovery from the devastating 2023 storms.
While much has been achieved over the past three years, many residents are still living with the trauma and practical impacts of that devastating event.
Muriwai has endured more than most communities could imagine. The landslides devastated homes and neighbourhoods, and we tragically lost two volunteer firefighters who gave their lives trying to help others. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Many property owners who accepted voluntary buy-outs have now been able to move on. However, many others remain in the community and continue rebuilding their lives.
The message I’ve consistently heard is that Auckland Council was not adequately prepared for an emergency of this scale. The initial response was too slow, communication was poor, and confidence was shaken. While significant improvements have been made, Council must now focus on the practical steps that will help Muriwai recover faster. 
Two priorities are rebuilding the Sand Dunz Café, which closed because of safety concerns, and reopening the gannet colony walking tracks.
The Sand Dunz Café is far more than just a building. It is a community meeting place, a destination for visitors, and an important symbol that Muriwai is rebuilding. Every effort is being made to accelerate this project.
Fortunately, the Council has been working constructively with the local community on the café’s redesign. For more details please feel free to contact the Muriwai Community Association via the email: muriwaicommunityassociation@gmail.com
All of the gannet colony tracks will reopen to the public well before summer, with the refurbished café anticipated to be open by summer next year. Temporary food vendors will continue to operate until then.
Recovery is about more than replacing buildings and infrastructure. It’s about restoring confidence, rebuilding community spirit, and showing the people of Muriwai that Auckland Council stands alongside them.
I will continue advocating for practical measures that help Muriwai, and our other communities, recover ensuring they receive the attention and investment they deserve.