Stranded by the Storm: Campers Trapped as Landslips Cut Off Key Highways
By Lions Roar News Weather & Travel Desk
BAY OF PLENTY, NEW ZEALAND (Friday, January 16, 2026) — The severe thunderstorm cell currently lashing the North Island has taken a dramatic turn, leaving several groups of people stranded at a local campground after heavy rain triggered multiple landslips, sealing off highway access.
As wild weather continues to move southeast across Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki, the sudden saturation of hillsides has led to soil instability, forcing emergency closures of critical transport links.
🏘️ Campers Cut Off
Emergency services were alerted this morning that visitors at a regional campground are currently unable to leave the site. Significant slips have blocked the only exit routes, effectively isolating the area from the main road network.
- Current Status: While the campers are reported to be safe and have sufficient supplies for the immediate future, they remain trapped until heavy machinery can be brought in to clear the debris.
- The Obstacle: Waka Kotahi (NZTA) has reported that the slips are “unstable,” meaning clearance crews must wait for the rain to ease and the ground to settle before it is safe to begin work.
🛣️ Highway Closures and Hazards
The slips have added to a chaotic morning on the roads, following earlier reports of a truck crash and hazardous spill on SH36.
- State Highway Impact: Multiple sections of the regional highway network are now under “soft closures” or restricted access due to surface flooding and fallen debris.
- The Waioeka Gorge: With the storm moving toward the gorge, authorities are closely monitoring the area for further rockfalls and slips that could trap even more motorists.
🛡️ Official Advice for Those Trapped
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is in contact with site managers at the affected campground. They have issued the following advice for those stuck:
- Stay Put: Do not attempt to drive over or around landslips, as the road surface underneath may be undermined.
- Monitor Updates: Keep battery-powered radios on for local weather and roading updates.
- Conserve Resources: While help is being coordinated, campers are advised to manage their food and water carefully.
