New Zealand authorities announced on Saturday that they are in the process of identifying individuals affected by a landslide that struck a bustling campground on the North Island of the country. This incident occurred after human remains were discovered during the night.
Following heavy rainfall that triggered the landslide at Mount Maunganui on the east coast of the island on Thursday, six individuals, including two teenagers, are believed to have lost their lives. The campground in the city of Tauranga was packed with vacationing families at the time of the disaster.
Rescue operations have been halted, and efforts are now focused on recovery, as police have indicated it is unlikely that any of the missing individuals have survived. Authorities mentioned that no signs of life have been detected since Thursday when first responders heard voices from the debris.
Chief Coroner Anna Tutton stated that her team is currently engaged in the process of identifying the victims, although the duration of this process remains uncertain. Tutton emphasized the meticulous approach being taken to carry out the identifications.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event and extended condolences to the families of the victims, emphasizing national solidarity during this difficult time. Luxon visited the site to show support and meet with the affected families.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand reported that a team of 35 workers, supported by heavy equipment, was clearing debris on Saturday following a partial slip in the search area the previous evening. Adverse weather conditions, including heavy rain forecasted for the day, may pose additional challenges to the operation, potentially requiring the withdrawal of the work crew for safety reasons.
In a separate incident this week, heavy rains triggered another landslide in the nearby suburb of Papamoa, resulting in the loss of two lives.