Recovery efforts at the site of a deadly landslide in Mount Maunganui have been paused after concerns were raised about a potential new slip.

Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson said work was halted at 11.50am.

"Geotechnical experts are assessing the area and teams will resume work as soon as they are cleared to do so.

"Delays like this are frustrating but the safety of everyone supporting the recovery effort is paramount."

Grief and anger 

Rain and a cold wind have set in in Mount Maunganui as a steady stream of people pay their respects at the edge of the cordon around Mauao. 

Conditions are pretty unpleasant but it hasn't stopped people from visiting the memorial site that has been plastered with flowers. 

A piece of plywood is quickly being filled with messages of love and grief. 

Most are reaching the cordon and taking a moment, standing silently alongside their family as they view what can be seen of the slip and looking up at Mauao, its only inhabitants flocks of sheep grazing on the hillside.

Diane and Ken, who live in a retirement home in Mount Maunganui, came this morning to write their message, having been just a few blocks from the campsite when the slip occurred. Together with her sadness, Diane said she felt great frustration more wasn't done to avoid the tragedy. 

“I’m just so angry,” she said. 

“This is another White Island, Pike River, Cave Creek and that CCTV building; no one has taken responsibility.” 

She cited past studies and concerns about slips on and around Mauao and questioned the council’s safety processes.

Diane said others shared her feelings: “People are angry, they really are.” 

Ken was doubtful meaningful action would be taken when asked about the council’s commitment to review the incident. 

“How many times have we heard that? This is preventable.”