Emergency services are engaged in a desperate night-time search for survivors, including a young girl, after a catastrophic landslide struck a campground in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, January 22, 2026, has left several people unaccounted for as heavy rains triggered the devastating event.
Campground Devastated by Unprecedented Rainfall
The landslide, caused by unprecedented rainfall, has wreaked havoc on the Mount Maunganui campground. Reports indicate that tents were completely flattened, and a campervan was forcibly pushed into a nearby hot pool as the earth gave way under the deluge. The scene is one of utter destruction, with debris scattered across the area, complicating rescue operations.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts Amid Challenging Conditions
Rescue teams are working tirelessly through the night, sifting through the wreckage in the hope of locating survivors. The challenging conditions, including ongoing heavy rains and darkness, have not deterred emergency personnel from their mission. Authorities have emphasised that this is an ongoing event, with updates expected as the situation develops.
The community in Mount Maunganui is on high alert, with local resources mobilised to support the rescue efforts. The landslide serves as a stark reminder of the power of natural disasters and the importance of swift emergency response in such crises.
