Overview
A landslide struck a coastal campground in Mount Maunganui, a seaside town in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region south-east of Auckland. As authorities work to confirm the number of people affected, residents and visitors remain anxious as teams conduct search and rescue operations in challenging conditions along the hillside above the campground.
What happened
Early reports indicate a mass movement of earth and debris descended the hillside and impacted a camping area near the shore. The incident prompted responders to establish a command post, assess safety risks, and begin multiple search efforts along the affected zones. Weather conditions and unstable terrain have complicated the operation, delaying a firm count of those missing or injured.
Search and rescue response
Emergency services—fire and rescue, police, and ambulance teams—have deployed to the scene. Specialist geotechnical crews are assessing ground stability, while humanitarian teams coordinate to provide assistance to anyone displaced. Local authorities have urged the public to avoid the area to keep access routes clear for responders and to minimize further risk.
Casualties and missing persons
Official numbers are yet to be confirmed as crews conduct thorough searches through the debris and mud. Families and travelers in the region are awaiting updates as the prioritization remains on locating anyone trapped and ensuring medical care for those who may be injured. The situation underscores ongoing concerns about landslides in hilly coastal areas after heavy rainfall and storm activity in recent days.
What we know about safety and risk
Authorities have highlighted that landslides in coastal regions can be rapid and unpredictable, particularly after rainfall or seismic events. Residents and visitors are advised to remain aware of geotechnical warnings, heed evacuation orders, and stay away from unstable slopes and shoreline bluffs. Local councils often monitor known risk areas and communicate updates through official channels.
If you are visiting or living nearby
Tips for staying safe include staying on designated roads and walkways, avoiding the base of cliffs or hillsides, and monitoring trusted news outlets for alerts. If you must travel through the region, proceed with caution and respect cordons and police directions. For those with loved ones in the area, contact travel companions through standard channels while authorities coordinate longer-term relocation and support if needed.
What’s next
Investigations will determine the landslide’s cause, including rainfall levels, soil saturation, and any pre-existing instability. As rescue efforts continue, officials promise to share verified information as soon as it is available. The incident adds to a broader discussion about land stability in popular coastal destinations and the importance of rapid, coordinated responses when lives are at stake.
