Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has today joined with Mount Maunganui locals and the families of victims of the Mauao landslide near the site of the tragedy.
“At 7am each morning since the Mount Maunganui landslide, families of the victims and those working to clear debris have come together on the site,” the PM said in an online post this morning.
“It was special to be there for that this morning and to spend a few hours with the families, who as you can imagine are in so much shock and pain.
“I told them that the whole country is thinking of them right now and that their grief is shared right across New Zealand.”
The Prime Minister also visited with members of the public at the community centre.
“It has been a tough time for a number of Kiwis but I want to assure you that the Government is here alongside you ready to assist,” he said.
Today’s visit followed a vigil held at Blake Park overnight, which the PM also attended.
“Very special to join the Mt Maunganui community at Blake Park, remembering the precious lives lost this week,” he said.
