New Zealand rescue teams are urgently searching for and assisting missing people after a massive landslide struck a beachfront campsite in Mount Maunganui on the country’s North Island, following several days of unstable weather and persistent heavy rain.
Large amounts of soil and rock flowed down from the base of Mount Maunganui—locally known as "Mauao"—an extinct volcano, before flooding into the Beachside Holiday Park area. This popular campsite attracts many tourists and families during the Southern Hemisphere summer. As a result, tents, campervans, cars, and various structures were buried under the landslide debris.
New Zealand police stated that several people remain missing, though exact numbers have yet to be confirmed. Firefighters and rescue personnel reported that within the first few hours after the incident, no survivors were found nor any signs of life detected beneath the debris. Nevertheless, search operations continue at full capacity despite risks posed by unstable ground and the potential for additional landslides.
Rescue teams have mobilized firefighters, police, special search and rescue units, sniffer dogs, and helicopters to assist on site. Authorities immediately closed the campground following the event and evacuated nearby residents to ensure their safety.
New Zealand's Minister for Emergency Management confirmed that involved agencies are maintaining continuous rescue efforts, coordinating with local and central government bodies to provide additional resources. The public has been urged to avoid the affected area and closely follow official warnings.
This landslide is one of several disasters occurring across the North Island after New Zealand experienced unusually heavy rainfall during the summer. The severe weather has caused flooding, landslides, and ongoing damage to infrastructure in many areas. Authorities warn that the risk of further landslides remains if the rain continues over the coming days.
Source:ABCnews
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