Heavy rain hits New Zealand's north island, schoolboy goes missing in caves

Auckland: New Zealand's upper North Island was hit with heavy rain which led to flash floods and landslides. A schoolboy has gone missing in a cave while exploring the area on a trip.

He is 15-16 years old. It is not clear how he disappeared.

The missing kid was part of an outdoor education class visiting the popular Abbey Caves complex north of Auckland. They encountered a "severe weather event" that lasted for days. Almost four inches of heavy rain was expected on Tuesday alone. Abbey Caves are known to feature three caves that are "prone to flash flooding".

The Northland Police in a statement said that fourteen classmates and two teachers from Whangarei Boys High School were accounted for. Police, fire, and emergency rescue crews searched for several hours before the night fell. "The search is expected to resume at first light tomorrow, and a cordon will remain in place this evening and overnight."

The group was initially trapped but was able to make it out safely.

Northland District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill said: "This is a tragic incident, and we understand many will be impacted by what has happened today. Our thoughts are with the 'whanau' (family) of the missing child, as well as all those involved in the group outing and the school." Family liaison officers and victim support had been assigned to assist the boy's family.

New Zealand is approaching the austral winter. Nighttime temperatures are expected to dip to 16C. Rainfall is expected to reduce.

The school is being questioned why the group chose to go out in potentially bad weather conditions. Principal Karen Gilbert-Smith said the management will seek to understand the situation later but asked parents to stay united for the time being.

Auckland has declared a state of emergency after heavy rainfall caused cars to be stranded and topped trees. Rail services are also disrupted.