Deadly Landslides Strike New Zealand’s North Island Amid Extreme Weather

TORONTO, January 22, 2026 – Emergency crews are conducting rescue operations in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region after multiple landslides triggered by extreme rainfall killed at least two people and left several others missing. The incidents come as New Zealand grapples with what officials describe as “one in 100 years” weather events that have caused widespread flooding and infrastructure damage across the North Island.

Current Emergency Situation

Two separate landslides occurred on Thursday morning in the Bay of Plenty region. The first struck a house in Welcome Bay at approximately 4:50 a.m., trapping four occupants. Two people managed to escape, but emergency services recovered the bodies of two others hours later. The second, larger landslide hit the Beachside Holiday Park at the base of Mount Maunganui around 9:30 a.m., crushing vehicles, travel trailers, and an amenities block that was reportedly in use at the time.

Police Superintendent Tim Anderson confirmed the number of people missing at the campground is in “single figures,” with emergency services using sniffer dogs and heavy machinery to search through unstable rubble. Fire and Emergency NZ commander William Pike reported that initial responders heard voices from within the debris shortly after the landslide but had to withdraw due to safety concerns about further ground movement.

Australian tourist Sonny Worrall, who was in a hot pool at the campground, described the terrifying moment: “I looked behind me and there’s a huge landslide coming down. I turned around and I had to jump out from my seat as fast as I could and just run.” The campground has been evacuated, with displaced patrons directed to the nearby Mount Maunganui Surf Life Saving Club.

Historical Context of New Zealand Landslides

New Zealand experiences a high frequency of landslides due to its geological characteristics: ongoing tectonic uplift, frequent earthquakes, steep terrain, and areas of weak volcanic soil. According to GeoNet records dating back to 2001, significant landslide events have occurred regularly throughout the country:

National Landslide Databases and Monitoring

New Zealand maintains two major landslide databases to better understand and mitigate landslide risks. The New Zealand Landslide Database (NZLD), managed by Earth Sciences NZ (formed from the merger of GNS Science and NIWA in July 2025), contains hundreds of thousands of landslide records primarily triggered by high rainfall and significant earthquakes. This quality-assured database provides crucial data for developing landslide hazard models and informs decisions about land use and infrastructure development.

The New Zealand Open Landslides Database (OLD), jointly funded by Toka Tū Ake EQC and Auckland Council, serves as a central repository for landslide information from councils, Crown entities, and geotechnical consultants. GNS Science research indicates landslides have caused approximately 1,800 fatalities over the past 160 years—significantly more than earthquake casualties over the same period—and cost the country an average of $250-$300 million CAD annually.

Safety Information and Preparedness

New Zealand’s National Emergency Management Agency provides specific guidance for landslide preparedness and response. Warning signs include unusual sounds like trees cracking or rumbling, growing cracks in ground or buildings, sticking doors and window frames, and tilting trees or retaining walls. During a landslide, authorities advise immediately getting out of the path, evacuating if buildings are in danger, warning neighbours, and contacting emergency services.

Areas particularly prone to landslides include locations with existing old landslides, steep slopes, drainage channels on steep slopes, streams and riverbanks, or coastal cliffs. After the 2023 North Island Severe Weather Events that killed 15 people, a government inquiry found New Zealand’s emergency management system was not fit-for-purpose and made 14 recommendations for improvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes landslides in New Zealand?

Landslides occur when the strength of a slope is overwhelmed by stresses. In New Zealand, common triggers include heavy rainfall (particularly events with 100 mm or more in 24 hours), earthquakes (magnitude 7 or greater), and human activities like deforestation, road construction, or leaking water pipes. The country’s mountainous terrain, ongoing tectonic uplift, and frequent seismic activity make it particularly susceptible.

How can I check if my area is prone to landslides?

The New Zealand Landslide Database webmap provides public access to historical landslide data. Public non-registered users can view landslide points, while registered users (registration is free) can access all landslide feature classes including polygons showing the full extent of landslide areas. Your local Civil Defence Emergency Management Group can also provide information about historical landslides in your area.

What should I do if I see signs of an impending landslide?

Immediately evacuate the area if you notice warning signs such as unusual sounds, growing ground cracks, or structural movement in buildings. Warn neighbours, contact emergency services (111 in New Zealand), and stay away from the area until authorities declare it safe. Do not attempt to cross landslide debris as it often contains dangerous voids and materials.

How does climate change affect landslide frequency in New Zealand?

While the provided data doesn’t specifically address climate change, the 2023 Government Inquiry into the Response to the North Island Severe Weather Events noted that “large scale weather events should be considered the ‘new normal.'” Increased frequency and intensity of rainfall events associated with climate change would logically increase landslide risks, particularly in already susceptible areas.