WEB DESK: Two teenagers were among six individuals still unaccounted for following a devastating landslide at a bustling campground on New Zealand’s North Island, authorities reported on Friday. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly to locate potential survivors trapped beneath the debris.
Triggered by heavy rains on Thursday, the landslide occurred at Mount Maunganui on the island’s east coast. Cascades of soil and debris engulfed a campground in Tauranga, where families had gathered for summer holidays. Despite the destruction, no fatalities have been officially confirmed so far.
Emergency official David Guard stated that 25 personnel, along with contractors, diggers, police dogs, and operational support teams, were meticulously sifting through the site. Every layer of soil is being carefully examined in the search for signs of life.
However, the scale and dangerous conditions of the site are complicating rescue efforts. Police Commissioner Richard Chambers cautioned that the operation might take several days. He acknowledged the growing anxiety of families awaiting updates on their missing loved ones but emphasized the need for utmost caution during the recovery process.
Among the missing was a 15-year-old, according to police commander Tim Anderson, who also noted that efforts to contact three other individuals were ongoing. While it is uncertain if they were present at the campsite, authorities are continuing their investigations.
No additional signs of life have been detected since initial responders reported hearing voices under the rubble on Thursday, Anderson shared.
Footage from the site revealed catastrophic damage, including crushed recreational vehicles and a partially collapsed structure.
On Friday, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visited the scene to meet grieving families. He expressed heartfelt condolences, affirming that the nation shared their sorrow. Luxon also pledged government support for affected areas once a full assessment of damages was completed.
In response to questions from reporters about the delayed evacuation of the campsite, Luxon announced plans for a public review to examine the circumstances surrounding the disaster.
Meanwhile, the torrential rain which caused widespread havoc along the island’s eastern coastline also triggered another landslide in the nearby Papamoa suburb. This incident claimed two lives, one of whom was identified as a Chinese national, according to Chinese Ambassador Wang Xiaolong via social media.
Some of the hardest-hit areas remain cut off as closed roads further isolate towns. Civil defence authorities in Tairawhiti warned residents collecting emergency provisions to avoid crossing landslides, as these fragile areas could collapse further under any disturbance.
