New Zealand Landslides Leave Two Dead and Multiple Children Missing
At least two people have lost their lives, with multiple children still unaccounted for, following massive landslides that devastated parts of New Zealand. The catastrophic events were triggered by record-breaking rainfall in recent days, causing widespread destruction and chaos across the North Island.
Destruction in Welcome Bay and Holiday Park
According to reports, two individuals were killed in a landslide that struck a house in the community of Welcome Bay on New Zealand's North Island. The incident occurred at approximately 4:50 AM, trapping victims inside the structure. Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell confirmed that two other people managed to escape the house, while the bodies of those trapped were recovered hours later.
The Beachside Holiday Park has been evacuated as a precautionary measure, with authorities urging the public to avoid the area. Rescue workers have indicated there are no signs of life at the campsite, heightening concerns for those still missing. Mitchell noted that 'at least one young girl' is among those unaccounted for, with Police Superintendent Tim Anderson stating the number of missing persons is in the 'single figures'.
Foreign Tourists Caught in Chaos
Foreign tourists, including Australians, were among those caught in the turmoil. Dramatic footage showed caravans, tents, vehicles, and toilet amenities being flattened by the landslides. Australian tourist Sonny Worrall from Newcastle, NSW, described the terrifying moment, saying it was the scariest experience of his life.
'I looked behind me, and there was a huge landslide coming down,' Worrall told TVNZ. 'I turned around, and I had to jump out from my seat as fast as I could and just run. Looking behind me, there was a caravan coming right behind me. It all happened in a flash. I was fearing for my life. People were panicking everywhere.'
Emergency Response and Regional Impact
Emergency responders have launched a desperate search for those feared trapped, with helicopters deployed to rescue families sheltering on rooftops from flooding. Mitchell described sections of the east coast as resembling 'a war zone', underscoring the severity of the situation.
Local states of emergency have been declared in five regions in Northland and the East Cape, highlighting the extensive impact of the landslides and flooding. The public is advised to stay clear of affected areas as rescue operations continue amidst challenging conditions.
