New Zealand Landslide Leaves Several Missing at Campsite with No Signs of Life
Rescue operations are underway in New Zealand after a devastating landslide struck a popular campsite, with authorities reporting several people missing and no signs of life detected for hours. The incident, triggered by heavy rains across the North Island, has caused widespread damage and cut power to thousands of homes.
Landslide Hits Mount Maunganui Campsite
Emergency services were called around 9:30 am local time on Thursday to the base of Mount Maunganui, a well-known tourist destination in the Bay of Plenty region. The landslide impacted the Beachside Holiday Park, leaving caravans strewn and damaged in its wake. Police Superintendent Tim Anderson confirmed that the number of missing individuals is in the "single figures," though specific details on the total affected have not been released.
Rescue Efforts and Challenges
Fire and Emergency New Zealand commander William Pike provided an update three hours after the slide, stating that no survivors had been recovered at the Mount Maunganui site. He mentioned that members of the public and initial fire crews heard voices from the rubble, but due to possible movement and further slipping, everyone was withdrawn for safety. Since then, no sign of life has been detected, complicating the rescue mission.
Additional Incidents and Response
In a separate but related event, police reported two people missing after another landslide struck a house in nearby Papamoa. Additionally, a third person is said to be missing after a vehicle was washed away north of Auckland. Local media reports indicate that children are among the missing, citing emergency management minister Mark Mitchell.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has urged residents in affected areas to follow safety advice from local authorities, emphasising that the government is doing everything possible to support those impacted. The heavy rains have led to road closures and significant disruption across the region.
Tourist Spot Impact
Mount Maunganui is described by Bay of Plenty tourism websites as a must-visit destination, renowned for its beautiful beach and activities like swimming and walking. This incident highlights the vulnerability of such areas to extreme weather events, raising concerns about safety and emergency preparedness in popular tourist spots.
