Mt Maunganui's community is stepping up to help families and first responders a day after a landslide drove through a campground and hot pools. 

The Herald understands from a source involved in rescue efforts that there could be up to nine people unaccounted for.

Hundreds of emergency responders have been at the base of Mauao since from just after 9.30 yesterday morning.

Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale told Andrew Dickens volunteers and locals have been very generous during what is a tough time. 

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