Location:

Bay of Plenty

Specialist technology is being used to ensure the safety of teams working on the recovery operation at Mount Maunganui.

The search area was evacuated at 11.50am yesterday, after a contractor driver noticed potential instability on the face of the slip. Following advice from two independent geotechnical experts, it was deemed too hazardous for teams to continue working.

Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson says the recovery effort resumed at 10.30am today.