Rescue operations persist in New Zealand’s North Island following devastating landslides that struck popular tourist areas, resulting in multiple casualties and numerous missing persons. The catastrophic events occurred after days of torrential rainfall battered the region, triggering massive earth movements that engulfed campgrounds and residential areas.
At Mount Maunganui, a renowned tourist destination with cultural significance to the Māori people, emergency crews continue searching for six individuals reported missing after a landslide obliterated a crowded campsite. Among the unaccounted are two teenagers, with the youngest being just 15 years old. Authorities have additionally requested public assistance in locating three international tourists believed to have been present during the incident but who may have since departed the area.
In the neighboring community of Welcome Bay, tragedy struck with confirmed fatalities when another landslide destroyed a residential property. Radio New Zealand reported the heartbreaking loss of a grandmother and her grandchild, with police confirming one victim held Chinese citizenship.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visited the disaster zones on Friday, expressing admiration for the community’s resilience and the professional response of emergency services. ‘Despite the tragedy, I remain incredibly impressed by the professionalism demonstrated in the wake of this disaster,’ Luxon stated, while acknowledging ongoing challenges including road access to isolated communities and continuing risks of additional slips and flooding.
Rescue coordinator Police District Commander Tim Anderson confirmed that no signs of life had been detected beneath the rubble during recent operations, but emphasized that teams were ‘working 24/7’ and ‘leaving no stone unturned’ in their efforts. Footage from the scenes shows rescue personnel and specially trained dogs meticulously searching through crushed caravans and flattened tents.
The Chinese Embassy in New Zealand expressed profound sorrow over the events, with Ambassador Wang Xiaolong stating on social media platform X: ‘Our hearts are with the impacted families at this difficult moment.’
The region has experienced multiple landslide incidents in recent years, raising questions about environmental management and safety protocols in areas increasingly affected by severe weather patterns.