Newzealand, JAN 22 : Several people, including children, are reported missing after a massive landslide struck the Beachside Holiday Park at the base of Mount Maunganui in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region on Thursday morning.
Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell described the incident as a “tragedy” and confirmed that search and rescue operations are ongoing. “Parents and the husband of some of the people that we’re currently trying to rescue” were present at the campground, he said.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand commander William Pike added that rescuers initially heard voices beneath the debris but have not detected any further signs of life so far. No survivors have yet been confirmed.
The landslide swept through campervans, cars, tents, hot pools, and a shower block at around 9:30 a.m. local time, prompting emergency evacuations across the site. The disaster follows Tauranga’s heaviest single day of rainfall on record, with 270mm falling in just 24 hours.
Parts of the North Island have been hit hard by flooding and extreme weather, leaving thousands without power and isolating several communities. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon urged residents in affected areas to follow safety instructions issued by local authorities, stating that the government is providing full support to those impacted.
Mayor Mahe Drysdale called the event “deeply distressing” and said the safety and wellbeing of those involved remain the top priority. Authorities continue to assess the situation as heavy rains and extreme conditions persist across the region.