A Devastating Landslide in New Zealand: Multiple Missing at Camping Site
A tragic landslide has struck a popular camping site at the base of Mount Maunganui, on New Zealand's North Island, leaving several people missing and causing widespread concern. The incident, described as a "major incident," occurred around 9:30 am, affecting campervans, cars, tents, and a toilet and shower block.
Emergency services, including police, firefighters, and ambulance workers, have been swiftly deployed to the scene, with sniffer dogs assisting in the search for those potentially trapped under the mud and debris. The Beachside Holiday Park, located about 230 kilometers southeast of Auckland, is currently the focus of extensive emergency operations.
Among the missing is a young girl, and there are fears that other children may also be unaccounted for. The local community has been deeply affected, with residents like Robyn, who lives nearby, witnessing the emergency response efforts. She described seeing emergency staff digging through the mud for over an hour, and ambulances leaving the scene without passengers.
The Tauranga Mayor, Mahe Drysdale, emphasized the evolving nature of the situation, stating that they are working through lists of checked-in individuals but do not yet know the exact number of missing people. The ablution block is identified as the most critical area, but the surrounding campervan and tents also require attention.
A witness, Nix Jaques, recounted hearing a loud noise and witnessing the landslide's impact. She saw vehicles and structures being moved, including a campervan with a family inside. Jaques attempted to help a couple who were missing a child in the initial stages but noted the rapid arrival of emergency services.
St John Ambulance declared a major incident, and Fire and Emergency's shift manager, Paul Radden, confirmed the presence of 40 firefighters, including an urban search and rescue team, at the scene. The authorities are working tirelessly to locate and assist those affected by this devastating landslide.
