Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand
The fire burning in the Tongariro National Park has grown to an estimated 400 hectares.
Fire and Emergency Assistant Commander Nick West says that firefighters will monitor the fire overnight but it is too dangerous for active firefighting, and aircraft were all stood down at nightfall.
Conditions are easing but a wind shift is forecast around midnight, which will push the direction of the fire’s travel further to the north, in the direction of State Highway 46.
Fire and Emergency is working closely with Police, Iwi and the Department of Conservation on the safety of people in the area.
Evacuations of trampers were carried out earlier this evening. If people are aware of friends or family who were planning to be on the Tongariro Crossing or the general area of SH47 and the Maungatepopo Hut today, they should try to get in touch with them and confirm their whereabouts. If they are not able to make contact, please call 111 and advise the Police.
People living in the area should be alert to the fire and any advice from emergency services.
State Highway 47 remains closed between SH46 and SH48 and no detour is available. The Department of Conservation has closed the Tongariro Crossing and associated areas.
A no fly zone is in place covering the fireground and surrounding area, so that firefighting aircraft are not endangered by other aircraft or drones.
Firefighters from fire brigades and the Department of Conservation will be on the ground at first light, supported by six helicopters and two fixed wing aircraft.
