Approximately 80 campers who were stranded at Whangaruru since Sunday have returned home after being forced to hike to safety following a significant landslide.
Landslide Disrupts Camping Trip
The campers were staying at the Department of Conservation’s (DOC) Puriri Bay campsite when torrential rain caused widespread flooding and triggered a 50-metre-wide slip, blocking the only road access. According to Jude Thompson, of the Whangaruru Residents and Ratepayers Association, many tents were flooded or swept away, necessitating the campers’ trek over the unstable terrain.
Rescuers then transported the campers approximately one kilometre to Tūparehuia Marae in Bland Bay, where the local community provided essential supplies. Thompson noted that many individuals “literally only had what they were standing in” and were grateful for the support offered by the local hapū.
Community Response and Recovery
By late Monday, DOC and its contractors had cleared enough of the slip to allow campers to return and collect their vehicles. However, many belongings were lost, either washed away by floodwaters or destroyed. The main road south of Whangaruru remains closed due to a separate washout, but those returning were able to travel north via Russell.
The Bland Bay campground also experienced flooding and a power outage, rendering the toilets unusable. Fortunately, those campers were also accommodated at Tūparehuia Marae.
Ongoing Concerns
Thompson expressed concern about potential further severe weather expected later today and on Wednesday, noting that the hillsides and flats are already saturated. She reported that slips have already occurred at Whakatūria, a treasured pā site. Residents have been advised to prepare for potential power outages and to pack “go bags” with essential supplies in case evacuation to higher ground becomes necessary. Flooding has already been reported south of Punaruku, isolating residents between that location and the washed-out bridge at Ngaiotonga.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the campers reach safety?
Campers hiked over a 50-metre-wide slip to reach a location where rescuers could shuttle them about a kilometre to Tūparehuia Marae in Bland Bay.
Where did those affected receive assistance?
The local community provided food, clothing, and bedding to those impacted at Tūparehuia Marae. The campground also provided food to those at the marae.
What is the current status of access to Whangaruru?
The main road south from Whangaruru is still closed due to a washout, but campers were able to return home by travelling north via Russell.
Given the saturated ground and forecast for more severe weather, what steps can communities take to further enhance their preparedness for potential future events?
