NZ resumes recovery efforts after fatal landslide

New Zealand police have resumed rescue efforts for victims of a landslide that hit a busy campsite on the country’s North Island last week.

Six people, including two teenagers, are thought to have died after heavy rains hit Mount Maunganui on the island’s east coast on Thursday, causing earth and debris to fall in the area in the city of Tauranga, which is teeming with families during the summer holidays.

Human remains were found in the area on Saturday, but police have not yet confirmed whether they have been identified.

Efforts to rescue victims were suspended Sunday after a contractor driver noticed potential instability in the landslide.

Bay of Plenty District Commander Tim Anderson said on Monday rescue efforts resumed at 10.30am.

“Additional monitoring equipment was brought in and specialist crews removed worrying loose material above the slip area this morning,” he said.

A vigil for the victims was held in a nearby park on Sunday and was attended by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell, as well as about 200 residents, according to Radio New Zealand.

Luxon said it was “so special to join the Mt Maunganui community” to remember the precious lives lost at X.