New Zealand authorities have officially terminated search and rescue operations for six individuals buried beneath a devastating landslide that struck a popular campground in Mount Maunganui on Thursday. Police Superintendent Tim Anderson confirmed the transition to recovery efforts, stating that locating survivors is no longer feasible.
Human remains were discovered Friday evening beneath layers of dirt and debris at the sacred Māori site, which ranks among the nation’s most frequented camping destinations. The victims include two 15-year-olds from Auckland—Sharon Maccanico and Max Furse-Kee—alongside four adults: Lisa Anne Maclennan (50, Morrinsville), Måns Loke Bernhardsson (20, Sweden), Jacqualine Suzanne Wheeler (71, Rotorua), and Susan Doreen Knowles (71, Ngongotaha).
In a separate but related incident, Radio New Zealand reported a grandmother and her grandchild perished in another landslide at nearby Welcome Bay. The region has endured days of torrential rainfall on North Island, with meteorological services forecasting additional precipitation through the weekend.
Emergency crews labored through treacherous conditions described as “incredibly challenging” before formally transferring operations to police on Saturday. Chief Coroner Judge Anna Tutton acknowledged the identification process would be “complex” and “painstaking” while pledging to expedite familial reunification.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visited the disaster zone Friday, noting the “inspiring” community response as locals assisted with debris clearance in flood-affected areas. The tragedy highlights growing concerns about repeated landslides at Mount Maunganui, which has experienced similar geotechnical events in recent years.