Mount Maunganui landslide update #3
24 January 2026
Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s specialist Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team continued to work through the night on the search for persons unaccounted for at the Mount Maunganui landslip in the Bay of Plenty.
Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler says USAR personnel are still working to carefully remove layers of debris and heavy machinery is on site to assist.
"There are 25 USAR personnel and a further ten Fire and Emergency personnel on site working closely with Police.
"The team will continue these operations whilst rescue activities continue."
Around 6pm last night, there was a partial slip in the northern sector of the search area. Personnel have not searched that area since for their safety, but it is being continuously reassessed.
Today, there is more heavy rain forecast which may present challenges for our operations. 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.
"Our thoughts remain with the families of the people unaccounted for," Megan Stiffler says.
"We ask people to avoid the Mount to allow emergency services to have the space to work safely.
"There is still a high risk from further landslides in the weather affected areas. If you or anybody else is in a life-threatening situation, please call 111."