New Zealand is mourning deeply following a devastating series of landslides that have claimed two lives and left at least six individuals still unaccounted for. This tragedy struck a campsite at Mount Maunganui and a nearby home early Thursday morning, prompting a massive search and rescue operation by emergency crews.
Authorities confirmed that the first landslide occurred around 4:50 AM at a residence in Welcome Bay, where two individuals tragically lost their lives. While two people managed to escape the house unharmed, the bodies of the victims were later recovered. In the continued aftermath of severe rainfall across the North Island, another landslide then hit the Beachside Holiday Park, where families were vacationing for the summer. Images revealed extensive destruction, with vehicles, travel trailers, and amenities completely crushed under the weight of debris.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, during his visit to the affected areas, met with grieving families and conveyed the collective sorrow felt across New Zealand. He reflected on the difficult circumstances facing those affected, stating, “New Zealand is full of grief today… and grieves with them.”
The Chinese ambassador to New Zealand, Wang Xiaolong, confirmed that one of the deceased was a Chinese national and extended his condolences to the families involved, appreciating the swift assistance provided by local authorities.
Local officials, including Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale, are now facing scrutiny about the response to initial reports of potential landslides earlier that day. Drysdale noted that while some campers evacuated after a smaller slip, many remained on-site. The continued search efforts throughout the night have yet to yield any additional survivors or bodies at the campground, as rescuers tackle the dangers of unstable terrain.
Emergency services have been working tirelessly, using trained dogs to assist in the search for missing individuals, particularly near areas where campers were last known to be. Authorities have received reports of individuals missing due to flooding in other parts of the North Island, highlighting the widespread impact of the recent extreme weather.
With the situation still developing, the Prime Minister urged residents in affected regions to heed safety advice from local authorities, reinforcing that the government is committed to supporting those impacted during this dire time.
Fire and Emergency NZ reported that there was an initial indication of life in the rubble after the landslide at Mount Maunganui, sparking hopes for potential survivors. Eyewitness accounts have detailed the terrifying moment the landslide struck, with one tourist describing the experience as “the scariest thing” he had ever encountered.
As New Zealand grapples with this tragedy, the strength of community support and resilience in confronting such adversities may provide a glimmer of hope amidst the grief. The nation stands united in its sorrow, ready to aid those in need during this challenging time.