Landslide at Mount Maunganui Campground: Several People Missing
Several individuals are unaccounted for following a significant landslide at a campground in Mount Maunganui. The incident occurred at the Beachside Holiday Park, situated at the base of Mauao.
Landslide at Mount Maunganui Campground: Overview of the Incident
The landslide struck around 9:30 AM, impacting several structures, including campervans, cars, and an ablution block. Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell confirmed that among those missing is a young girl, with reports indicating that more children may also be unaccounted for.
Emergency Response and Current Situation
Emergency services quickly mobilized to the scene, deploying sniffer dogs to search for anyone trapped beneath the debris. Reports from local residents indicate that emergency responders have been digging through the mud for approximately an hour with no successful recoveries at that time.
Robyn, a nearby resident, shared her observations, stating that ambulances were leaving the scene empty while police remained active. She noted the ongoing efforts to locate missing individuals amid challenging conditions.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
Tauranga Mayor Mahe Drysdale described the situation as evolving, emphasizing that authorities are working to account for all those registered at the campground. The ablution block has emerged as a primary area of concern due to its usage at the time of the landslide.
Witness Nix Jaques described the moment of the landslide, recalling a loud noise and observing the land collapsing onto structures, including an ablution block where individuals were reportedly showering. She also recounted assisting a family searching for a missing child shortly before emergency services arrived.
Emergency Management and Community Support
The event prompted St John to declare a major incident, resulting in a coordinated response from police, firefighters, and ambulance crews. Fire and Emergency’s shift manager announced that around 40 firefighters, including members of the urban search and rescue team, are currently on site.
The Mount Maunganui Surf Life Saving Club is serving as a triage center and evacuation point, with the majority of the campground premises evacuated.
Public Warnings and Community Solidarity
Bay of Plenty MP Tom Rutherford urged the public to keep those affected in their thoughts while requesting that they avoid traveling to the area to ensure unimpeded access for rescue teams.
- Incident: Landslide at Beachside Holiday Park
- Date: Occurred around 9:30 AM
- Location: Mount Maunganui, New Zealand
- Casualties: Several missing, including children
- Emergency Response: 40 firefighters and rescue teams mobilized
The community remains hopeful as rescue efforts continue, and further updates will be provided as the situation develops. For more information, visit Filmogaz.com.
