Hopes recovery work can resume soon at the site of the Mount Maunganui landslide

Work ceased earlier today following the appearance of a new crack on the maunga, raising concerns another slip could be imminent.

Six people remain unaccounted for and are presumed dead following Thursday's slip.

Two independent geotechnical assessments suggested emergency services refrain from operating on the site for the time being.

District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson says the risk can be mitigated once more equipment arrives.

He says it would be foolish and negligent to continue the work tonight.