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Papamoa Tragedy: Two Lives Lost in Landslide

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/22/papamoa-tragedy-two-lives-lost-in-landslide.html
  Published in House and Home on Thursday, January 22nd 2026 at 22:06 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
      Locale: NEW ZEALAND

Papamoa, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand - January 23rd, 2026 - A wave of grief has swept through the Papamoa community following a catastrophic slip that claimed the lives of two family members and destroyed their home. The tragedy, which occurred late Thursday night, has ignited questions about land stability and preventative measures in the region.

The victims have been identified as 78-year-old Elsie Mason and her grandson, 13-year-old Michael Mason. Their home, a property on Te Tumu Road, was completely engulfed by the slip, leaving the family and the wider community in shock and mourning. Authorities are currently working to clear debris and assess the safety of neighboring properties.

A Family Lost, Community Grieves

The Mason family were described by neighbors as integral members of the community. They had resided in the house for three generations, fostering deep roots and strong relationships with those around them. Elsie Mason was widely known and fondly regarded as a surrogate grandmother figure to many in the neighborhood, often tending to her garden and engaging with residents. Michael, a young boy described as "sweet" and "good," was also deeply missed. "They were a lovely family, really lovely," one neighbor shared, reflecting the sentiment felt throughout the community. "Elsie was always out in her garden, and Michael was a good kid. Such a tragedy."

Several other properties in the vicinity were evacuated as a precaution, highlighting the immediate concern for the safety of the surrounding area. The Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management Group is focused on providing support to the grieving family and ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents affected by the incident. Controller Roger Giles emphasized the group's commitment to clearing debris and conducting thorough stability assessments.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

Police have confirmed the identities of the deceased and are assisting the family during this incredibly difficult time. A formal investigation is currently underway to determine the precise cause of the slip. Authorities are meticulously examining a range of contributing factors including recent rainfall levels, the underlying ground conditions, and any other potential elements that may have exacerbated the situation.

The tragedy has triggered widespread anxieties within the community about the safety of properties situated on similar terrain. Residents are understandably questioning whether adequate preventative measures were in place, and whether more could have been done to avoid this devastating outcome. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing risks posed by natural hazards, especially given projected climate change impacts on rainfall patterns and ground saturation.

Political Response and Future Prevention

Local Member of Parliament David Seymour has expressed his condolences to the family and has pledged to seek answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the slip. He has also stated that he intends to advocate for increased scrutiny of land stability assessments and potential improvements to preventative infrastructure. "My thoughts are with the family," Seymour stated. "I will be seeking answers about how the slip occurred and what measures can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future."

The event underscores the need for proactive land management strategies, including regular geological surveys, improved drainage systems, and the potential implementation of early warning systems for areas prone to landslides. It also highlights the importance of community awareness and preparedness regarding natural hazard risks. The coming weeks will be critical as the investigation progresses and the community begins the long process of healing and rebuilding.