William Pike

Stories

Deadly landslides hit New Zealand's North Island

Directing complex high-risk rescue operations

Nine people died during storms that struck New Zealand's North Island from January 16–22, 2026. Three separate incidents account for the deaths: a campground landslide, a home collapse, and a river drowning.

Updated May 22

Notable Quotes

"Members of the public tried to get into the rubble and did hear some voices. Our initial fire crew arrived and were able to hear the same. Shortly after our initial crew arrived, we withdrew everyone from the site due to possible movement and slip." — Press conference, January 22, 2026

from Deadly landslides hit New Zealand's North Island · Updated May 22

"This is a rescue operation." — Public statement, January 23, 2026

from Deadly landslides hit New Zealand's North Island · Updated May 22