Emergency crews in New Zealand are intensifying their search efforts for victims of a devastating landslide that struck a busy campground on the North Island. The landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall, occurred on Thursday morning at Mount Maunganui on the island’s east coast, burying a popular campsite where families were enjoying their summer school holidays. Authorities revealed that two people have lost their lives in the disaster, one of whom was a Chinese national, according to the Chinese ambassador to New Zealand, Wang Xiaolong.
While New Zealand officials have not confirmed details regarding fatalities, police have indicated that nine individuals, including children, may still be unaccounted for. The search-and-rescue teams, working tirelessly through the night, faced challenges due to the unstable conditions at the site, as highlighted by Tauranga Mayor Mahe Drysdale. “That’s really hard, and we’re here with the families,” he remarked, emphasizing the emotional toll of the continuing uncertainty surrounding the missing individuals.
Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell acknowledged the difficulties rescue teams are experiencing due to the precarious environment. Efforts to confirm whether some campers may have left without notifying authorities are ongoing, as police aim to gather more information in the face of this disaster. New Zealand Police Commissioner Richard Chambers underscored the significant challenges posed by the scale of the landslide, indicating that the search process could stretch into days.
The heavy rainfall that caused the landslide has led to widespread damage throughout the North Island, with additional landslides affecting the neighboring town of Papamoa and incidents of vehicles washed away north of Auckland. Roads have remained closed in several affected areas, rendering certain towns inaccessible by land. Local civil defense authorities have warned residents to exercise caution, advising against traversing landslide zones to obtain supplies due to the risks of further geological shifts.
Despite the dire circumstances, the resilience of the community shines through as families await news of their loved ones. With continued efforts from emergency services and the support of local authorities, there remains hope that the search will yield positive outcomes. The people of New Zealand come together in the face of adversity, showcasing the strength of community solidarity during such challenging times.
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