A search for six individuals presumed dead following a landslide at the Beachside Holiday Park in New Zealand has entered a challenging phase. The landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall from a summer storm, occurred on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at the popular campsite located at the base of Mount Maunganui. Those missing range in age from 15 to 71 and include a Swedish tourist and a teenager originally from Italy.
The recovery operation was temporarily halted over the weekend due to fears of unstable ground conditions. On Monday, authorities resumed the search, acknowledging that teams were operating in hazardous environments. Superintendent Tim Anderson of the New Zealand Police stated, “We’re just holding out for the weather to improve because moisture is the enemy at this point. The ground is saturated, and what we need is days of fine weather.”
As the search progresses, the impact of the landslide has become increasingly evident. A significant wave of mud cascaded from the mountain, burying vehicles, travel trailers, and amenities at the campsite. Initial rescue efforts reported hearing voices beneath the debris, but by Saturday, officials indicated they did not believe any of the missing individuals had survived.
The victims have been identified as Lisa Anne Maclennan, 50; Måns Loke Bernhardsson, 20; Jacqualine Suzanne Wheeler, 71; Susan Doreen Knowles, 71; Sharon Maccanico, 15; and Max Furse-Kee, 15. This tragic event unfolded during New Zealand’s peak summer holiday period, drawing attention to the campsite’s precarious location.
The weather-related disaster has claimed additional lives. Three individuals have died due to the storm, including two killed when a landslide buried a house in nearby Papamoa. Additionally, a 47-year-old man from Kiribati was swept away by floodwaters in the North Island, with his body being discovered on Saturday.
Heavy rainfall has raised concerns about whether evacuation orders should have been issued prior to the landslide incident. The local fire service confirmed that a warning regarding potential slips near the holiday park was communicated to the Tauranga City Council, the landowner of the site, just four hours before the landslide struck. In response to the tragedy, the council announced it would conduct an independent inquiry into the events leading up to the disaster.
As the search continues, the community remains hopeful for a resolution, while authorities work diligently to ensure the safety of rescue teams in the face of ongoing adverse conditions.
