Story perspectives

Tragic Landslide at Mount Maunganui: Multiple Missing

1/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Several people are missing, including a child, after a landslide at Mount Maunganui campground.
The landslide occurred around 9:30 AM on January 22, 2026, after record rainfall prompted five regions to declare states of emergency.
Emergency Minister Mark Mitchell described the situation as challenging.
Helicopters have been deployed to assist with rescues.
Rescue efforts continue as police and firefighters search for those unaccounted for amid flooding across the North Island.

History

Historical Context

New Zealand's vulnerability to natural disasters was starkly highlighted by the Christchurch earthquakes in 2010, which resulted in 185 deaths and prompted reforms in emergency response, including the creation of the Earthquake Commission. The recent landslide at Mount Maunganui, following heavy rainfall, underscores ongoing challenges in disaster preparedness and the necessity for resilient infrastructure to protect communities.

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Story summary

Several people are missing, including a child, after a landslide at Mount Maunganui campground.
The landslide occurred around 9:30 AM on January 22, 2026, after record rainfall prompted five regions to declare states of emergency.
Emergency Minister Mark Mitchell described the situation as challenging.
Helicopters have been deployed to assist with rescues.
Rescue efforts continue as police and firefighters search for those unaccounted for amid flooding across the North Island.

1 / 2