Tararua District Council is aware of some areas of ground settlement affecting a number of plots in the southern area of Mangatera Cemetery. This means that in certain places the ground level has dropped slightly over time, creating an uneven surface.

Ground settlement occurs naturally over time to all burial plots, particularly in older parts of cemeteries. This is usually managed by the grounds contractors over time, but due to the number of burial plots currently requiring maintenance, the remedial work required is on a larger scale. Our Facilities team is actively assessing and managing the area, with safety measures in place where needed.

As part of this work, ground penetrating radar assessments have been completed and identified approximately 130 plots affected in the southern area of the cemetery. We are currently working through the results and responses will be prioritised in stages depending on the extent of settlement at each plot.

This work is planned to be carried out over the next few months. Visitors may notice fresh topsoil and grass seed in some areas as work is carried out to restore uneven ground.

The cemetery remains open. Visitor safety is our priority, and inspections are ongoing. Signs and barriers have been placed in specific areas where extra care is needed, and we ask visitors to take care on uneven ground.

We also ask visitors not to drive vehicles onto lawn areas within the cemetery while this work is underway.

At this stage, no issues beyond normal turf maintenance have been identified at other cemeteries across the district.

If you see contractors working on site, please allow them space to carry out their work safely.

Many of the affected plots date back more than 40 years, and the contact details we hold for family members may no longer be current. By sharing this update publicly, we hope to reach relatives, descendants, and others with a connection to these plots, so they are aware of the work taking place. If you believe a family member is buried in this area and have concerns regarding this work, please contact us and we will be happy to assist.

A map of the affected area is available below. If you would like to enquire whether a particular plot may be affected, please contact us on 06 374 4080 or 06 376 0110.

Affected area: