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The New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) has cancelled a one-hour full strike that had been scheduled to begin at 12 noon today, Friday, January 23, citing the extreme and ongoing impacts of severe weather across the country.
The union said today and the days ahead would be “extremely difficult” for many families and communities affected by landslides, flooding and missing persons.
“Our thoughts are with the families of those reported as missing after a landslide hit the Mount Maunganui Holiday Park and a driver who was swept away north of Auckland,” the NZPFU said.
“We stand with New Zealanders waiting for news as Urban Search and Rescue teams continue to work through the night.”
The union also extended its deepest sympathies to the loved ones of two people recovered deceased following a landslide in Welcome Bay.
Emergency services confirmed two people were recovered from a house on Welcome Bay Road in Papamoa on Thursday evening after it was extensively damaged by a landslide earlier in the day. Both were pronounced dead.
Police are supporting the victims’ families at what has been described as an incredibly difficult time. The deaths have been referred to the Coroner.
Widespread flooding and damage
Thousands of other families have been affected by flooding, with extensive damage in parts of the East Coast.
In several districts, residents have lost their homes, while major slips have cut off some Northland and East Coast communities, potentially for days.
The NZPFU acknowledged the heroic actions of members of the public who have braved dangerous conditions to rescue loved ones, neighbours and, in some cases, strangers.
It also paid tribute to emergency responders from multiple agencies, including career and volunteer firefighters from Fire and Emergency New Zealand, who have worked tirelessly across affected regions since heavy rain struck Northland on Sunday.
Prime Minister’s response
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described the recent weather events as “a profound tragedy, claiming lives and devastating livelihoods”.
“My thoughts this evening are with the families who have lost loved ones, and with those whose family members remain unaccounted for,” he said in a post on X.
“These losses are deeply shattering, and New Zealand is heavy with grief.
“The rescue effort continues, and the Government stands with affected communities during this response, and we will continue to stand with them throughout the recovery ahead.”
Luxon also thanked first responders, the Defence Force, local marae and members of the public who have stepped in to help.
“Amid this tragedy, we have once again seen the very best of New Zealand,” he said.
“On behalf of the country, thank you.”
