Residents have been urged to prepare for evacuation as five helicopters battle a large vegetation fire in the vicinity of Tongariro National Park this afternoon – just a month after a massive blaze scorched 3000 hectares in the area.
Emergency services were alerted to the fire just after 1.10pm on Monday.
Fire and Emergency NZ said the fire, which was initially reported as multiple blazes, merged into a large fire around 110 hectares in size.
“There are 10 trucks and six support vehicles in attendance working alongside the helicopters.
“Crews from National Park, Owhango, Whakapapa, Ruapehu Rural, Waimarino Rural, Turangi, Southern Lake Taupo Rural and Whanganui are in attendance.”
Huge fire in ‘virtually the same place’ as November prompts evac warnings – Watch on TVNZ+
Emergency services were alerted to the fire, near the site of a blaze in November, just after 1.10pm on Monday. (Source: Supplied)
The Department of Conservation asked visitors to Whakapapa area and tracks to leave, with residents contacted to prepare for evacuation if necessary.
Shane Isherwood told 1News he was at the entrance to the Tongariro Crossing as the fire had started “just down the road” from where the November blaze began.
“I’m a shuttle operator for the crossing, and we’re just getting back into it after the last fire. It’s quite devastating since the last one was three weeks ago.”
Michaela Watson, who was tramping in the area, said it all happened so quickly.
“We did the Tawhai Falls walk and when we got back to the car 40 minutes later, we couldn’t believe our eyes. It’s so devastating for our region.”
NZTA said State Highway 47 was closed between the State Highway 46 and State Highway 48 intersections due to the blazes.
“Please follow the detour and allow extra time for travel,” a spokesperson said.
Ruapehu District Council said Civil Defence was monitoring the situation and were ready to stand-up resources to assist response if required.
Around this time last month, a devastating wildfire scorched 3000 hectares of Tongariro National Park, burning out of control for almost three days.
Helicopters, planes and ground crews fought to contain it as flames triggered evacuations of trampers and residents.
Scrub fire closes highway in Hawke’s Bay
State Highway 2 has been closed by a scrub fire between Wairoa and Mohaka this afternoon.
Police said motorists should avoid the area and delay travel if possible.
Fire and Emergency NZ said crews from Wairoa and Putorino were attending the blaze, reported at 1.43pm.
