More than 100 people have gathered at Blake Park in Mt Maunganui for a sunset vigil, and more are continuing to flow through the various entrances of the park.
Organiser Rachel Bailie says locals are hurting for those families who have lost loved ones, and she wants them to know the community stands with them.
People are sitting on a bank looking at Mauao in the distance, taking time to reflect and be together.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is attending the vigil alongside Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell, Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson and Tauranga mayor Mahé Drysdale.
Local MPs Sam Uffindell and Tom Rutherford have also attended.
Earlier, Tauranga's He Maimai Aroha - Community Care Centre opened its doors and welcomed members of the community to mourn the outcome of the landslide.
Drysdale said the community was grieving with the families, and this was a place for everyone to reflect, share messages and seek comfort.
"We got the tragic outcome yesterday that we hoped wouldn't happen and, you know, we've now got to deal with that."
"For me personally, yes, it does take a heavy toll. However, you know, I've just been with the families and I know how much harder it is for them."
He said the biggest concern now was making sure those that are helping with the recovery are safe.
"The last thing we want to do is, you know, have another situation like this."
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