Live updates: Police release names of six unaccounted for in Mt Maunganui landslide
'Hug your babies, life can change in a moment'
Pinned Hamish Fletcher
The mother of a 15-year-old Auckland student missing in the Mount Maunganui landslide says the family have "no definite answers but know when we do there will be no good news".
Pakūranga College student Max Furse-Kee is one of six people unaccounted for in the tragedy and his mother Hannah told family and friends to "hug your babies, life can change in a moment".
Hannah Furse shared the heartbreaking news to Facebook, which the Herald has republished with her permission.
"Devastatingly my Max was one of the people trapped in the Mt Manganui slip on Thursday morning," Hannah Furse says.
"While he is still missing and we have no definite answers we know that when we do there will be no good news ... Hug your babies, life can change in a moment."
Police release names of six unaccounted for in landslide
Pinned Hamish Fletcher
Police have released the names of the six people missing in the landslide:
- Lisa Anne Maclennan, 50, from Morrinsville
- Måns Loke Bernhardsson, 20, from Sweden
- Jacqualine Suzanne Wheeler, 71, from Rotorua
- Susan Doreen Knowles, 71, from Ngongotaha
- Sharon Maccanico, 15, from Auckland
- Max Furse-Kee, 15, from Auckland
“Every single person involved in this operation has been focused solely on saving the lives of the people under the slip. Search teams have been working through the slip layer by layer, but tragically it is now apparent that we will not be able to bring them home alive," Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson said in a statement.
“This is heartbreaking news for the families and the dozens of people who have been working day and night, hoping for a positive outcome".
“We informed the families of this news this morning and we’re continuing to provide them with wrap around support. They are going through something very few people could understand, and we ask that they be given space to grieve.”
Earlier, police confirmed the discovery of human remains at the landslide. Watch the full press conference where they shared the tragic news below:
Hamish Fletcher
Around 30 homes are being evacuated on the East Coast due to the risk of landslides.
Gisborne District Council tonight released the below statement:
Evacuations are underway on the East Coast in Onepoto and parts of Te Araroa due to landslide risks from the hills above. Tairāwhiti CDEM Group Controller Ben Green says significant landslide risk had been identified but no geotech assessments have yet been completed. “We need to be confident there is no risk to life and until this has been completed they will not be returning.
“When we visited Te Araroa yesterday we saw evidence of landslides in close proximity to houses and the potential risk to life is too great, until we understand what the geotech assessments come back with.”
The evacuations were led by Police and FENZ, supported by the community civil defence teams. This will involve around 30 houses with evacuees either relocated to friends and whānau or within the community.
Te Araroa FENZ are inside the risk zone and will be moving their appliance and equipment to an alternate site. There is no indication on just how long people may be out of their homes, or whether they will be able to return given full and detailed geotechnical
investigations need to be done. Civil Defence teams in both locations have support plans in place and things are progressing smoothly with whānau accepting and understanding of the risks.
Body of man missing in river near Warkworth found
Hamish Fletcher
The body of a man who was swept away in his vehicle in the Mahurangi River near Warkworth has been found.
Police said the body - believed to that of the 47‑year‑old Kiribati man who was reported missing during severe weather on Wednesday - was recovered early on Saturday evening.
The man and his vehicle were swept away, while a passenger was able to escape the turgid river and sought help.
"Police extend their sincere condolences to the man’s whānau at this very difficult time. Family members have been informed and are being supported by Police," Inspector Simon Walker, Waitematā Police said.
Exclusion zone around Mauao
Hamish Fletcher
Due to the risk of landslip and the associated maritime safety risks around Mauao/Mt Maunganui, a 30 metre exclusion zone has been put in place by the Bay of Plenty Regional Harbourmaster.
The exclusion zone applies to all vessels and people (this includes swimmers) and is 30 metres from the base/shore of Mauao.
In a statement, Regional Harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters asked all vessels to keep clear of the zone until further notice, unless they are required to carry out police or civil defence operations, or have the approval of the Harbourmaster.
Hamish Fletcher
A Tauranga couple whose newly-built home appears precariously placed above a “horrendous looking” slip after this week’s storms say they “absolutely” still feel comfortable moving in.
Denise Andrews and her husband have owned the property sloping down a Welcome Bay hill for 38 years. They demolished their family home and have been constructing a new home they have not yet moved into.
Read the full story below
'We're just absolutely devastated:' Friends lost in landslide
Hamish Fletcher
Two Rotorua women believed to have been killed in the Mount Maunganui campground landslide were friends.
Police today released the names of Jacqualine Suzanne Wheeler and Susan Doreen Knowles, both aged 71 and four other people unaccounted for in the landslide.
Wheeler, known as Jackie, co-founded an interior design business and Knowles was a property manager for EVES in Rotorua.
Rotorua councillor Gregg Brown said the women were friends and had been good customers of the cafe he owned, Capers. He said he knew Knowles particularly well and described her as "a delightful human being".
"She helped us in her role at EVES a number of times and we were very grateful for her contribution." He said he was deeply saddened by the events in Mount Maunganui.
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell said Rotorua was a small town, and she knew of the two women.
"They're good friends of friends."
She understood Wheeler and Knowles were friends but could not confirm if they had been visiting Mount Maunganui together.
"They are parents, they are grandparents and we're just absolutely devastated for their families and all families involved."
Tapsell said she had been in regular contact with Tauranga Mayor Mahe Drysdale and it was clear to her that those involved in the operation at the slip site had been "giving it their absolute all"
"Despite the heartbreak, it's been humbling to see.
"There are many people not only in Rotorua, but around the world who have those impacted in their hearts and minds at this time."
PM's 'reality check'
Hamish Fletcher
Storm-affected Northlanders say a flying visit by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon gave him a chance to experience their everyday reality.
Whangārei district remains under a state of emergency after torrential rain on Sunday, followed by a storm on Wednesday, caused slips and flooding on the northeast coast.
Read the full story below
Children's tribute to the missing
Hamish Fletcher
Mourners - including children - have written tributes at a memorial to the missing at the cordon near the landslide in Mount Maunganui.
Watch: Community grieves as those lost in landslide named
Hamish Fletcher
Mourners have visited the cordon near the landslide in Mount Maunganui where six people remain missing to pay their respects.
'My heart is absolutely broken'
Hamish Fletcher
The MP for Pakūranga says the community was grieving the two teenagers killed in the Mount Maunganui landslide.
Max Furse-Kee and Sharon Maccanico, both 15, attended Pakūranga College in Simeon Brown's electorate.
"To Max and Sharon’s families, friends, and everyone who knew and loved them, our community is grieving with you," Brown said this afternoon.
"These were two young people with their whole lives ahead of them, taken far too soon in the most unimaginable way. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this devastating time. The Pakūranga College community will also be feeling this loss deeply. What should have been the excitement of a new school year has been overshadowed by heartbreak."
'The pain is impossible to imagine' - Rotorua mayor
Hamish Fletcher
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell says the pain of the families grieving their loved ones lost in the landslide is impossible to imagine.
Two of the missing - Sue Knowles and Jacqualine Wheeler - are from Rotorua.
Hamish Fletcher
Here is Herald cartoonist Rod Emmerson's take on the tragedy at the Mount.
'We share your sorrow' - iwi message to families
Hamish Fletcher
Ngāti Ranginui extended its "deepest aroha and condolences to the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives at Mauao and Pāpāmoa this week".
The Bay of Plenty iwi said its "hearts were heavy and our people are deeply saddened by these events".
"Mauao is a sacred mountain to Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Pukenga and Waitaha Iwi. It holds our stories, our whakapapa, and the spiritual threads that bind our people across generations," the iwi said.
"With this tragedy, those who have passed now become part of the sacred fabric of our maunga. Their wairua will forever rest beneath the mantle of Mauao, protected and embraced for all time. To the grieving families, we share in your sorrow."
"Though we cannot lessen the weight of your loss, we offer this assurance: your loved ones’ spirits will always be respected, honoured, and safeguarded within the spiritual domain of our mountain and our moana. May you find some measure of solace in knowing that their wairua is held with reverence for eternity."
School pays tribute to two students caught in landslide
Hamish Fletcher
Pakūranga College has confirmed the two teenagers caught in the landslide were students at the east Auckland school.
"It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of two Pakūranga College students, Max Furse-Kee and Sharon Maccanico."
"Many members of the college have been deeply impacted by the news and we are working to support students and staff in the coming days and weeks."
"The wellbeing of our college community is paramount as the school year starts next week under incredibly sad circumstances. Parents have received an email this afternoon with advice and information for supporting their children as they process this distressing event. Arohanui x."
'Your heart goes out to the parents'
Hamish Fletcher
A woman and her family visiting Mt Maunganui from Auckland said she felt compelled to come to the cordon area after following news of the landslide tragedy, becoming emotional as she spoke about the families affected.
Tammy Kairau, who arrived in Mt Maunganui on Friday, said she and her family have a house in the area and visit as often as they can.
The family wanted to see if there were any services or anything happening in the community they could be part of.Kairau said she had found people in the community had mostly been keeping to themselves.
“As a mum too, your heart goes out to the parents that are going through this,” she said.
“You can’t help but think about your own children, your own whanau at times like this.”
Kairau and her family wrote a message on the tribute board at the scene sending their love.
Hamish Fletcher
Locals Geoff and Lisa Bartley knew what it was like to lose a loved one to an unexpected tragedy and to not have answers.
They travelled from Te Puna to the Mt Maunganui cordon this afternoon to bring flowers and show support to the grieving families.
Geoff lost his brother in a farm fire several years ago, and said the experience meant in some respects, he understood the uncertainty and grief families were now facing.
Not knowing was one of the hardest parts, he said.
Geoff said the incident had affected the whole community, and while there was little people could do, simply being there and showing support was important.
He said his advice to the families was to be there for each other and lean on one another during a difficult time.
Morrinsville school staff member among the missing
Hamish Fletcher
A staff member of Morrinsville Intermediate school is among those missing in the landslide at Mount Maunganui.
Principal Jenny Clark shared the news on Facebook and said the community was continuing to hope and pray for Lisa Maclennan, who she described as the school's "amazing" Literacy Centre tutor.
"Our love and aroha go out to Lisa's family," Clark said.
Public are paying their respects for the six unaccounted for in landslide
Hamish Fletcher
Members of the public are paying their respects at the Mount Maunganui cordon. Police have discovered human remains at the site of the disaster.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Northland
Hamish Fletcher
Pattinson Wetere with the Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell in Northland. Pattinson was caught in the flash flood in Mōkau and had to carry his 6-year-old granddaughter through chest high water to safety. Locals are calling him a hero.
Flowers left at Pilot Bay cordon
Hamish Fletcher
Flowers have been left at one of the cordons around the recovery operation at the Mount campground.
Anger as camper attacks lack of warning to evacuate
Hamish Fletcher
In case you missed this earlier:
An Auckland woman who fled soon after Thursday’s landslide at the base of Mount Maunganui with her 16-year-old son is in disbelief they weren’t evacuated a day earlier, as weather reports worsened.
“I do feel angry about it, because there are people that are not going to come out alive, and we could have been among them as well,” said Karyn Henger, speaking exclusively to the Herald.
“Where were the campground staff? Where were the council? Where was anybody to warn us that we needed to get out of there?” she said.
Watch Garth Bray's exclusive interview below.
'Every New Zealander is grieving' - PM
Hamish Fletcher
Prime Minister Chris Luxon today said it was devastating to receive word that people had died inside the campground, with every New Zealander hoping for a miracle.
"Today, it is devastating to recieve the news we have all been dreading," he said in a statement posted to X.
"Police have confirmed fatalities at the campground and the reality that noone would have been able to survive, therefore the rescue operation taking place there is now moving to a recovery.
"To the families who have lost loved ones - every New Zealander is grieving with you."
He acknowledged and thanked everyone who was continuing to work at the campground, along with first responders and local heroes who "put themselves in harm's way to help others in the initial aftermath of the landslide".
Rotorua grandmother believed to have died in landslide
Hamish Fletcher
A Rotorua grandmother is believed to be among the victims of a landslide at a Mount Maunganui campground.
Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson said the operation at the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park is now a recovery rather than a rescue.
Six people are unaccounted for and police are expected to release their names shortly.
The Herald understands one is Sue Knowles, a grandmother and property manager for EVES in Rotorua.
Read the full story in the link below.
'Harrowing job' for emergency teams
Hamish Fletcher
Fire and Emergency Assistant National Commissioner David Guard said it had been a "harrowing job" for first responders during the emergency.
"My respect goes out to the families, but equally for emergency workers, and particularly those working on site. It's tough for them as well."
Police are now the lead agency as the operation moves into the recovery phase.
Person in custody after breaching Mount cordon
Hamish Fletcher
A person who broke the cordon around the Mount Maunganui operation this morning is in custody.
Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale said they will "take every opportunity to punish those people because it's unacceptable behaviour".
Questioned whether Mauao could face a permanent closure, Drysdale said council would be having those discussions "at a later date" with local iwi.
"Our thoughts and our priority is returning the remains of the people that remain here."
Deceased will be transported to Hamilton - Chief Coroner
Hamish Fletcher
The Chief Coroner shared her condolences for those families and friends who have lost loved ones.
She said human remains have been found and are now in the custody of the coroner.
The deceased victims will be transferred to the mortuary in Hamilton and will be kept there until they can be reunited with families.
While acknowledging that family members are desperate to be reunited with their loved ones, the Chief Coroner said.
She said identification can be a "painstaking, complex, lengthy process" that takes time".
"The last thing we want is to have any familiar traumatised by having a person other than their family member returned to them."
Human remains found at Mount Maunganui campground - police
Hamish Fletcher
Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson said authorities are moving from a "rescue operation into a recovery phase".
"This is heartbreaking news for us and obviously the families involved," he said during a press conference on Saturday afternoon.
Six people are still unaccounted for and police expect their names to be released this afternoon.
Anderson confirmed they have found human remains in the search.
He said the deceased were found in an area search teams expected them to be, but he wouldn't specify where.
Anderson said the identification process could take days.
"There's still a lot of mud and other aspects [around the site] so my primary consideration today is actually the safety of the staff working on it."
Asked about the numbers unaccounted for, Anderson confirmed there were six people authorities had been searching for.
Anderson said there were "really strict parameters around those that are working on site right now" due to the unstable ground.
"It rained last night, it's just rained before."
People seen running towards landslide cordon
Kendall Russell
Closures in Tauranga and wider region
Hamish Fletcher
Here is the latest from council officials on closures in Mount Maunganui and the wider region.
- People are advised to stay out of the water within the Tauranga Harbour area through to Pilot Bay due to overflows on the city’s wastewater and stormwater network. Until further notice, people should avoid swimming, wading, fishing, and collecting shellfish, as contact with contaminated water may pose a health risk. All stormwater should also be treated as contaminated during this time. Updates will be provided when available.
- All Mauao tracks, Mount Beachside Holiday Park, Mount Hot Pools and Mount Drury remain closed until further notice, and we ask the public to please stay away.
- Camping at McLaren Falls Park is closed and will remain closed for the long weekend. A large portion of the park is also closed while crews complete risk assessments and remove fallen trees. An update will be provided once assessments have been completed across the site.
- Omanawa Falls is closed until further notice for crews to remove a fallen tree from site.
- Walkway closures – Waikareao Estuary (Daisy Hardwick), Johnson Reserve and Gordon Carmichael Graham Place track.
Officials to give update on search operation
Hamish Fletcher
Authorities are due to give an update on the search operation. Watch it live at the top of this story.
Bible school student brings flowers for families impacted by Mount Maunganui landslide
Kendall Russell
East Cape residents told 'stay home' as weather deteriorates
Lynley Ward
Te Araroa Civil Defence says the rain and strong winds are starting to roll in once more and are pleading with locals to stay put.
"Please use your initiative and stay home unless travel is absolutely necessary.
"Our warndesn are currently on the roads doing house checks across the community and working with the high risk areas unable to get into town."
Anglican priest says landslide rescuers reach ablution block where campers buried
Kendall Russell
An Anglican priest who was at the scene of the devastating landslide in Mount Maunganui early Saturday says emergency officials have dug their way to the debris-covered campground ablution block.
Reverend Vianney Douglas from the Maori Mission Anglican Church in Tauranga told the Herald she was at the site at 7am to perform a karakia and offer support to rescue teams.
"My understanding is that they’ve made their way to the ablution block and are likely to be working in that area. If they are close to the ablution block, I think they’re expecting to discover or find something today," she told the Herald.
She praised rescuers who had been working through the night.
"I think they know they've got a big task ahead of them today," she said.
Read more from Michael Morrah below.
Latest on roads across North Island
Kendall Russell
Bay of PlentyThe following sections of state highway are CLOSED:
- SH2 Takitimu Dr (between Eleventh Ave and Fifteenth Ave - southbound lanes)
- SH2 Matatā to Edgecumbe
- SH2 Ōpōtiki to Matawai (Waioweka Gorge)
The following sections have REOPENED:
- SH2 Whakamārama (Esdale Rd to Wainui South Rd)
- SH2 Waihī to Katikati
- SH2 Tanners Point to Katikati
- SH2 Ōtamarākau to Matatā
CoromandelThe following sections of state highway are still CLOSED due to large slips:
- SH25 Kūaotunu to Kūaotunu West/Matarangi
- SH25 Whangamatā to Whiritoa
OPEN with caution and traffic management in place:
- SH25 Coromandel town to Matarangi /Kūaotunu West
- SH2 Paeroa to Waihi (Karangahake Gorge)
- SH25 Hikuai to Whangamatā
TairāwhitiThe following sections of state highway are still CLOSED:
- SH35 between Tikitiki to Pōtaka
The following sections are open with SPEED RESTRICTIONS in place:
- SH35 between Tolaga Bay to Tikitiki
- SH2 between Ormond and Matawai
The following sections have REOPENED:
- SH35 Gisborne to Tolaga Bay
- SH35 Ōpōtiki to Pōtaka
- SH2 Gisborne to Napier
'Unstable' trees on part of SH2, Tauranga, southbound lanes closed
Kendall Russell
Some trees along State Highway 2 Takitimu Dr in Tauranga have become "unstable" after this week's severe weather, the New Zealand Transport Agency says.
As a result, southbound lanes between Eleventh Ave and Fifteenth Ave are closed to allow crews to clear the trees and make the road safe.
It is expected this work will be completed late Saturday afternoon or early Saturday evening.
- Detour
For people heading towards Bethlehem, exit SH2 at Eleventh Ave, then turn right on to Cameron Rd, then turn right on to Fifteenth Ave, then turn left to re-join SH2. - For people heading towards Tauriko, exit SH2 at Eleventh Ave, then turn right on to Cameron Road, then turn right at the roundabout at SH29A (Barkes Corner). Alternatively, use SH2 and join SH29A at Baypark.
New thunderstorm threat for Auckland and Bay of Plenty
Lynley Ward
MetService has issued a fresh risk of thunderstorms this morning from Auckland to Taranaki, then spreading east to Taupo, Bay of Plenty and the Gisborne ranges this afternoon.
It warns the thunderstorms are likely to bring brief heavy rain of 10 to 15 mm, small hail, and strong wind gusts of 100 km/h.
Rescue teams are working as fast as possible, says powerline worker
Lynley Ward
Powerline faultman Alvin Webby says Mt Maunganui campsite rescue teams are working as fast as they can, saying he was humbled by the scale of the landslide that has left six people missing.
Rescue teams have since been frantically trying to dig out those underneath, with Webby being called in yesterday to turn power safely back on for rescuers trying to drain water from the Adams Ave site.
Calling it humbling, he said while public frustration at the speed of the rescue is understandable, it was inaccurate and not fair.
"A lot of people say they should have been found by now, but if you're actually down there, it's quite a humbling experience," he said.
"It's not just a quick fix."
Being on site until 1am today, he had seen three to four diggers “going hard” and going round the clock.
New teams were swapping in and out while a system was in place with team leaders working to keep the mission moving forward as fast as possible.
The rescue was far more complex than moving mud, he said.
The debris could be hazardous - filled with nails and sharp objects from twisted caravans and demolished buildings, Webby said.
And rescuers couldn't dig blindly for fear of hitting live power lines.
Webby had been called in to isolate electrical circuits, with the aim of providing power to rescuers near the toilet blocks while not leaving active power in dig or work zones where it could injure people.
He also had to be sure not to cut power to locals across the street.
His smaller role highlighted how there was an immense amount of coordination that needed to happen behind the scenes that online critics didn't see.
Adding to the challenges was that he believed the mountain remained a threat with fears more debris would come down if there was further bad weather.
Family in Italy prays for 15-year-old missing in campsite landslide
Lynley Ward
A 15-year-old Italian girl, Sharon Maccanico, is believed to be one of the six people unaccounted for following the Mount Maunganui landslide.
Sharon, who is originally from Avellino, Italy, was thought to be living in Auckland since at least May 2024 with her family.
Italian media have reported on her disappearance following the slip, while Sharon's Italian relatives have taken to Facebook to ask their local community to join them in a prayer at a church service in Picarelli in hope of a miracle.
The search-and-rescue operation at the slip site is ongoing, with multiple agencies and volunteers involved.
Photos: PM in Whangārei to meet with Emergency Management, response teams
Kendall Russell
Man missing after swept away in East Coast river
Lynley Ward
An operation is underway to find a man after he fell from his boat and was swept down an East Coast river.
Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander Inspector Nicky Cooney said police were called to the Waioeka River around 5.30pm yesterday after a report that a man had been swept downstream.
Emergency services carried out an initial search of the area south of Opotoki and located the vessel nearby.
A rescue helicopter and private helicopters were also used to search for the man alongside local jet boat operators.
"Sadly, at this stage, the man remains outstanding," she said.
Police were continuing to search for the man in the river today near the junction with Waiata Stream.
Cooney said police would be using land-based and water-based resources, alongside a drone to carry out aerial searches.
"We continue to support the man's family at this difficult time," she said.
Photos: Mount Maunganui landslide cordon
Kendall Russell
New slip halts work on section of campsite
Lynley Ward
A partial slip at the Mt Maunganui slip site has halted search efforts on its northern section.
Fire and Emergency said the slip happened at 6pm on Friday, and due to safety concerns, teams have not searched there since.
Teams have still been working throughout the night in other sections to remove the vast layers of rubble.
"Today, there is more heavy rain forecast which may present challenges for our operations," Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler said.
"USAR teams will be informed by experts when they need to withdraw from the slip area for their safety, and when it is safe for them to return."
Fire and Emergency said it had 10 personnel and a further 25 specialist Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) personnel working alongside police through the night to search for missing persons at the slip site.
"USAR personnel are still working to carefully remove layers of debris and heavy machinery is on site to assist," Stiffler said.
"The team will continue these operations whilst rescue activities continue."
A slip seen from Mount Maunganui's beach
Kendall Russell
Cruise ship passengers 'very sorry' to hear about Mount Maunganui landslide
Kendall Russell
A pair of German cruise ship passengers arriving at the Port of Tauranga this morning aboard the Vasco da Gama say they learnt of the Mount Maunganui landslide through other travellers and online, rather than from cruise staff.
Sibylle Klein and Meta Moskwa said they had booked a glowworm cave and kayaking tour, but it was cancelled due to poor weather.
Deciding they would head to Mount Maunganui instead, they discovered the area was closed following the landslide.
News of the landslide spread among passengers on board and became a popular topic of conversation, they said.
They were disappointed to not be able to visit Mount Maunganui but "understood" the situation, adding they were "very sorry" to hear about what had happened.
Fallen tree and slip blocks SH2 in central Tauranga
Lynley Ward
A fallen tree and slip on State Highway 2 in Tauranga has closed southbound lanes between Eleventh Ave and Fifteenth Ave.
NZTA said the closure took force around 9.40am, with geotechnical engineers called in to assess the situation.
The extent of the slip and the damage caused is not yet known.
Motorists are advised to detour by exiting the motorway at Eleventh Ave, turning right onto Cameron Rd, right again on to Fifteenth Ave, and then a left turn to re-join the motorway.
New threat as 'potentially dangerous' 120 km/h gales to lash sodden East Coast
Lynley Ward
Just days after the East Coast was swamped by rain, a new threat is emerging with 120 km/h gales set to lash the region.
Gisborne District Council and Tairāwhiti Civil Defence are warning locals of a "potentially dangerous situation" today in Gisborne, north of Tolaga Bay, with a strong wind watch in place from 11am until 7pm.
"The timing of this wind watch could not have come at a worse time and creates a potentially dangerous situation for many," the organisations wrote.
"The already wet ground and loose soil, coupled with exposed root networks on some trees, ramps up the risk for them to be up-rooted and soil to move.
"Indications are that the wind speeds may reach 100-120kph in some areas, so please take care out there."
People are being urged to take extra care and ensure that anything that can fly is securely tied down.
Ministry confirms Swedish tourist 'unaccounted for'
Kendall Russell
Sweden's Ministry for Foreign Affairs has confirmed a Swedish tourist is unaccounted for in New Zealand.
"The Ministry for Foreign Affairs can confirm that one Swedish citizen is unaccounted for in New Zealand. We cannot make any further comment on this individual case due to consular confidentiality."
Six people are confirmed unaccounted for following the landslide at the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park on Thursday. Three others are on a list of campers that had not checked out, officials said yesterday.
Families have been holding a vigil near the scene, with iwi reporting a father from Italy had lost two children.
Behind-the-scenes look at effort to find campers
Lynley Ward
Images taken inside the cordon show large machinery working in tandem with searchers looking for those beneath the rubble.
Iramoko Marae chairman Dr Pouroto Ngaporō posted that a karakia had taken place this morning that included a blessing for one of the trucks.
In a post a number of photos capture the rescue effort that has now entered its third day.
One photo captures an excavator clearing dirt from a spot with searchers peering down.
In another image camping equipment is left strewn on the ground near a large mound of dirt.
Fresh footage as rescue operation to find missing campers continues
Lynley Ward
Aerial images show a large cordon in place along the streets flanking Mount Maunganui as rescuers work round-the-clock to remove dirt brought down in Thursday's massive landslide.
A large section of the campsite is covered in mounds of dirt as excavators work to remove the debris brought down in the hillside collapse.
The rescue operation has now entered its third day with at least six people unaccounted for.
Cruise ship tourists unaware of extent of landslide
Lynley Ward
German cruise ship passengers arriving in Tauranga this morning aboard the Vasco de Gama say they have received little information about the devastating landslide.
Andrea and Michael Bottlinger, travelling with Ingrid and Joseph Droll, said Mt Maunganui was listed in their programme but they had “hardly heard anything”, apart from being told the area was closed.
The group said they also saw on Google Maps access was restricted.
The group said they were not staying in Mt Maunganui today and were instead heading to Matamata to visit the Hobbiton movie set.
Large cordon as operation to find missing campers continues
Lynley Ward
A large cordon remains around the rescue efforts underway at the Mount Maunganui campsite.
It is now feared a Swedish tourist is among those who may have been caught in Thursday's landslide.
Swedish tourist feared missing in Mount landslide
Lynley Ward
The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed a Swedish national is unaccounted for in New Zealand, following queries about any citizens potentially missing following the landslide in Mt Maunganui on Thursday.
"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs can confirm that a person has not been questioned in New Zealand.
"In view of consular confidentiality, we cannot comment further on the individual case," Camilla Bjelkås of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' communications team told Aftonbladet.
Northland slip blocking key road may take 12 weeks to clear
Lynley Ward
Whangārei District Council says a major slip on Russell Rd at Helena Bay Hill, one of only two remaining full road closures in the district, could take up to 12 weeks to clear following specialist assessments.
The slip is currently blocking public access to Helena Bay, Ōakura and the northern part of the district’s east coast, including the Whangaruru Peninsula (Bland Bay).
Specialist contractors have completed initial site inspections and provided the preliminary timeframes, indicating between 50,000 and 100,000 cubic metres of material will need to be removed.
The slip extends a large distance up the hillside, "beyond what is visible from the road", the council said.
Locals can still get in and out from their communities on a small back road but the council says that non-essential travel and unsuitable vehicles are being turned away at a checkpoint on Kaiikanui Rd.
"The road remains in a fragile condition andmust be used by residents only to limit further damage."
Are you in an affected area?
Lynley Ward
Email us with your stories and pictures: newsdesk@nzherald.co.nz
Mount Maunganui off limits to cruise passengers
Lynley Ward
A cruise ship has arrived at the Port of Tauranga, a few hundred metres from the stricken mountain.
The Vasco Da Gama, operated by the German line Nicko Cruises, docked early this morning.
Passengers often flock to climb Mauao after arriving in Tauranga but will be met with a deep cordon this morning as the search continues for six people unaccounted for.
The ship accommodates up to 1,000 passengers with a 550-crew.
Weekend off to rainy start with winter-like setup for North Island
Lynley Ward
Rain has been falling across pockets of both islands as the weekend begins on a wet note for many.
MetService says Wellington, South Wairarapa, Kaikoura Coast and parts of Otago and Southland are all experiencing persistent rain at the moment.
The forecaster says wet weather will continue across the day with a good chunk of the North Island in line for thunderstorms due to a cold, unstable southwesterly flow.
They're even saying it's a very winter-like setup in the skies above.
Man and vehicle still missing as river search winds down
Lynley Ward
The man swept away in his vehicle at a Mahurangi River crossing in Warkworth on Wednesday is still missing, with the latest search-and-rescue operation called off late yesterday afternoon.
Despite the efforts of around 30 personnel from various agencies, including the police, Land Search and Rescue, a Fire and Emergency water rescue team and a police drone searching the riverbanks, the man and his vehicle have not been found.
The Auckland Police Maritime Unit deployed its jet ski to search the water, but to no avail.
"Police will continue to monitor conditions over the coming days and deploy resource accordingly," a police spokesperson said.
'Lives in our communities are changed forever'
Lynley Ward
An emergency response fund has been activated after communities in the Bay of Plenty have been left devastated in this week's storm.
The Western Bay Emergency Response Fund — a joint initiative by Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, TECT, Tauranga City Council, and Western Bay of Plenty District Council - will provide urgent financial support to local organisations, marae and charities working directly with affected communities.
A State of Emergency was declared on Wednesday ahead of the record-breaking rainfall hitting the region.
The extreme weather triggered a major landslide at the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, leaving a number of people missing. Another slip in Welcome Bay destroyed a home, claiming the lives of two family members. Flooding has also impacted many communities.
"The impact is significant, and the lives of people in our communities have been changed forever.
“Our region is hurting right now, and we know people want to help their neighbours and communities," said the Acorn Foundation's Matty Nicholson.
"This fund ensures their support reaches the groups and organisations who will be working with those affected by this emergency through the hard times that are still ahead of us."
The fund is now accepting donations from the public.
If you wish to donate visit https://www.acornfoundation.org.nz/give/western-bay-emergency-response-fund
Man rescued after clinging to cliff for 8 hours
Lynley Ward
A man has been rescued after clinging to a Northland cliff face for eight hours after becoming trapped by a rising tide.
Northland Land Search and Rescue said the operation was mounted earlier this morning to get the man off the cliff.
The Northland Rescue Helicopter was brought in to find the stricken man.
"The joint police and LANDSAR team lowered the team doctor to the man before winching him to safety using technical rope systems.
"The man was uninjured but had been clinging to the cliff for over 8 hours. He was returned to a place of safety."
Severe thunderstorm warning for Wellington lifts
Lynley Ward
The thunderstorm threat for Wellington has now passed.
MetService lifted the severe thunderstorm warning at 6.45am.
Monster 10m waves to pummel North Island coast
Lynley Ward
With much of the North Island buffeted by thunderstorms, strong winds and rain, the west coast will also see waves of up to 10m, the largest crashing onto beaches at 2pm today.
Waikato Regional Council is warning of a "significant wave event" across the weekend.
Port Waikato, Mōkau and the Waikato region of the west coast will see significant swells from Saturday into Sunday, bringing a threat of coastal erosion and flooding at high tides.
"This wave event is big, even for the west coast, with forecast swell over 5 metres and maximum wave height over 10 metres possible," said the council.
"Peak waves are due around high tide Saturday [at 2pm], and will slowly recede over the following two days. The potential for coastal erosion and inundation will present over high tide periods from Saturday 2pm to possibly Monday."
Extended thunderstorm threat for Wellington
Lynley Ward
MetService has detected the line of thunderstorms moving near Wellington and the airport.
It says severe thunderstorms are moving towards the northeast, and are expected to lie near Wellington and Wellington Airport at 06:22 am.
These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by very heavy rain.
Watch: Local iwi spoke with father of two children lost in Mount slip
Samuel Sherry
Local iwi said they spoke yesterday with a distraught father who lost two children in the rubble at the Mount Maunganui campground landslide.
Last night, three representatives from local iwi tribes around the Mount Maunganui area were allowed into the cordoned area at The Mall where the search continues at the base of Mount Maunganui volcano.
Tracy Ngatoko, of the Tauranga Moana iwi, was emotional speaking about the scenes at the campground she saw.
Read more from Tom Dillane below:
Wild weather set to batter North Island
Samuel Sherry
MetService has warned strong winds and rain is set to hit parts of the North Island today, with strong wind watches in place for Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato north of Hamilton and Bay of Plenty about and north of Tauranga from noon and lasting for five hours.
Gisborne, north of Tolaga Bay, also has a strong wind watch starting at noon, but this will end at 6pm.
MetService meteorologist Michael Pawley told the Herald a region of instability has been moving up the South Island and will cause the strong gusts, but more severe weather, including thunderstorms, could be dragged along as well.
Severe thunderstorm warning for Wellington and Lower Hutt
Katrina
MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for people in Wellington and Lower Hutt, valid until 6.07am.
Severe thunderstorms have been detected near Wellington and offshore from the South Coast, moving towards the northeast. They're expected to lie near Wellington, offshore Wellington South Coast, Wellington Airport and Baring Head between now and 6.07am. They're expected to be accompanied by very heavy rain.
"Very heavy rain can cause surface and/or flash flooding about streams, gullies and urban areas, and make driving conditions extremely hazardous", MetService said.
The National Emergency Management Agency advises that as storms approach you should:
- Take shelter, preferably indoors away from windows;
- Avoid sheltering under trees, if outside;
- Get back to land, if outdoors on the water;
- Move cars under cover or away from trees;
- Secure any loose objects around your property;
- Check that drains and gutters are clear;
- Be ready to slow down or stop, if driving.
During and after the storm, you should also:
- Beware of fallen trees and power lines;
- Avoid streams and drains as you may be swept away in flash flooding.
Independent review ordered into Mount landslide
Samuel Sherry
Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale and council chief executive Marty Grenfell announced yesterday an independent review will be carried out on all aspects leading up to the Mount Maunganui landslide in Tauranga.
The scope, expertise, and timeframe for the review are still being determined, but Drysdale told Newstalk ZB questions need to be answered to give people the confidence of what happened.
“I think the families that are still missing their loved ones deserve to know this, the community want to know that the decisions being made are the right decisions and, if we can learn from this, then we need to.”
He also thanked emergency services who had been working at the scene.
“Thank you to all the emergency services doing a sterling job and thank you to our community who are supporting and getting in behind this horrible rescue effort which, you know, the families are really suffering.
“So just thank you to everyone that's doing a sterling job. I can just assure the public that everything is being done that can be done and we're still hopeful of a good outcome.”
Witness said danger visible before campers buried
Samuel Sherry
A Mount Maunganui local told the Herald a “mini waterfall” and slips were visible above the campground hours before a landslide hit but no official evacuation order was made for those camping below.
Colin McGonagle was walking just above the base of the mountain around 7.45am. When he noticed damage just above the campsite, he started taking photos.
Read more from investigative reporter Michael Morrah below:
Mount Maunganui search enters third day
Scott Palmer
The Mount Maunganui search has entered its third day as families face an anguished wait for an outcome.
Six people are confirmed unaccounted for, while three others are on a list of campers that had not checked out.
Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale and council chief Marty Grenfell announced an independent review into all aspects leading up to the landslide will be carried out, but it is unclear what it will look like.
Elsewhere, two bodies recovered yesterday from a house on Welcome Bay Road following a slip in the Tauranga suburb yesterday are thought to be a grandmother and grandson.
States of Emergency remain in place for Northland, Coromandel, Tairāwhiti, Bay of Plenty and Hauraki, while regions hit by the tropical storm mid-week can expect to face strong winds and thunderstorms this weekend.
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