Photo / RNZ, Nick MonroFriends Susanna Chow and Kaille Harris said it was about being with their community. Photo / Dean PurcellPrime Minister Christopher Luxon said it felt right making a last minute decision to drive down from Auckland to join those gathered at the vigil in Mount Maunganui on Sunday. Photo / RNZ, Nick MonroEzra McDonald has lived in Mount Maunganui for more than three decades, and showed up to offer his support for those affected. “It’s been a really strange atmosphere, lately, just really heavy, and I know people directly affected in the Welcome Bay landslide,” she said. Photo / RNZ, Nick MonroThose families were in the community’s thoughts, hearts and prayers, she said.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 25, 2026 21:20 UTC