A significant landslide in New Zealand has left numerous individuals, including children, missing at a renowned campground. Following heavy rainfall in Mount Maunganui, emergency services are conducting a search operation in the debris to locate those who are unaccounted for.
Reports suggest that children are among the missing persons linked to the landslide incident. The campground has been shut down post the natural calamity, with emergency responders actively engaged in finding the missing individuals.
The tragic event unfolded in a popular tourist destination, located approximately 240 kilometers southeast of Auckland, on Thursday morning. Distressing cries were audible from the beachside resort post the landslip that impacted tents, campervans, and a shower block.
The Tauranga City Council confirmed that most occupants have been successfully evacuated from the Mount Holiday Park. A council spokesperson stated that the situation at Mount Maunganui is continually evolving, with efforts underway in collaboration with emergency services to gather information and offer assistance.
A representative for the council expressed, “There are several individuals currently unaccounted for. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this incident and their families.”
According to a Fire and Emergency department spokesman, rescuers had to temporarily halt operations due to the risk of a secondary landslide. While voices were heard during the initial collapse, no sounds have been detected since then.
Minister Mark Mitchell mentioned that young people are among those missing, leaving distressed parents awaiting updates at the nearby surf club. As per recent reports, no survivors have been found yet, with emergency services confirming the absence of a young girl among the missing.
A nearby fisherman, Alister Hardy, recounted hearing sounds of nature before witnessing the hillside giving way, leading to people being caught in the landslide. He described a scene of chaos with people running and screaming, highlighting the presence of trapped individuals.
The region experienced a severe downpour, setting a record as the wettest day in history, receiving two-and-a-half months’ worth of rainfall within a span of just 12 hours.