The Herald has also spoken to a neighbour of the family who described them as “amazing people”. “It’s just unfair, when it happens to a very lovely family, lovely people. Photo / Michael CraigThe neighbour said a New Zealand man had lived in the area for a long time. Police Commissioner Richard Chambers said it could take days for families to get answers about the Mount Maunganui campground slip, given the complexities at the scene. Anxious family members of those missing have gathered at the campground awaiting news of their loved ones as recovery efforts continue.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 23, 2026 03:50 UTC