New Zealand was shaken on Thursday after a powerful landslide tore through a seaside campground at the base of Mount Maunganui, leaving several people missing, including children.
Emergency services were called shortly after 9:30 a.m. when tones of earth collapsed into the Beachside Holiday Park, burying parts of the popular campsite. Authorities said several camper vans and a shower block were struck by the slide, trapping people who were staying at the site.
Police and rescue officials confirmed that multiple individuals remain unaccounted for as search operations continue, though unstable ground conditions have significantly slowed rescue efforts. Crews have been working cautiously amid fears of further slips.
Local media also reported at least two deaths from a separate landslide linked to the same severe weather system affecting the region, raising concerns about wider risks across the area.
The landslide followed days of heavy rainfall on New Zealand’s North Island, with additional slips reported near roads and residential areas. Officials have closed the campground indefinitely and urged residents and travelers to exercise extreme caution as weather-related hazards persist.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue and recovery operations continue.
