Mount Maunganui — Authorities have confirmed that the intensive search following last week’s landslide at Mount Maunganui has now shifted into what officials describe as a recovery phase, marking a deeply difficult moment for families, responders, and the wider community.
Police said the change in focus comes after the discovery of human remains at the site late last night. While efforts continue under strict safety controls, officials acknowledged that the conditions on the ground remain unstable, with ongoing rain complicating access and slowing progress.
Six people are still unaccounted for following Thursday’s landslide. Speaking to media on Saturday afternoon, Bay of Plenty Superintendent Tim Anderson said investigators now believe it is “highly unlikely” the number of missing people will increase. He explained that three individuals previously the subject of public information requests have since been located, allowing authorities to narrow the scope of the operation.
Superintendent Anderson emphasized that safety remains paramount. Only essential personnel are permitted to work within the affected area, and their movements are closely monitored. “There are very strict parameters around who can operate on site,” he said, noting that rainfall overnight and again earlier today has heightened the risks.
Chief Coroner Judge Anna Tutton extended her condolences to families and friends affected by the tragedy. She confirmed that the remains recovered have been formally transferred into the care of the coroner. In accordance with established procedures, the deceased will be taken to the mortuary in Hamilton, where they will be respectfully held until arrangements can be made with their families.
“This is an unimaginably difficult time for those who have lost loved ones connected to the campground,” Judge Tutton said, acknowledging the grief and uncertainty many are facing.
Local leaders have also appealed for patience and respect. Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale confirmed that one person was arrested on Saturday morning after attempting to breach the restricted cordon surrounding the site. He stressed that such behavior will not be tolerated.
“We understand families want answers and want their loved ones brought home,” the mayor said. “But interfering with the operation puts everyone at risk. The vast majority of the community has been supportive, and we are grateful for that.”
Mayor Drysdale added that council officials are working closely with local iwi to observe a rahui, recognizing the cultural and spiritual significance of the maunga. “This is a sacred place for our local iwi, and that must be respected,” he said.
Earlier in the day, a further partial slip disrupted planned search activity in the northern sector of the site. Fire and Emergency New Zealand confirmed that crews temporarily withdrew from the area for safety reasons. Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler said conditions are being continuously reassessed, with expert advice guiding when teams can safely return.
Despite the challenges, more than 30 specialist personnel remain involved, working alongside police in difficult conditions. Heavy rain forecast for the region may present further obstacles in the days ahead.
International concern has also emerged, with Sweden’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirming that one Swedish national remains unaccounted for.
Looking ahead, Tauranga City Council has announced an independent review into all factors leading up to the landslide. Mayor Drysdale said the review is intended to provide a clear understanding of events and to help safeguard the community in the future. He stressed, however, that the immediate priority remains supporting affected families and those working tirelessly on the ground.
As Mount Maunganui waits for answers, the community continues to balance hope, patience, and respect—standing together during one of its most challenging moments.