Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand
The Walter Peak fire has been fully contained, and firefighters have demobilized this evening.
Fire and Emergency District Commander Blair Kiely says that after an assessment of the conditions on the ground this afternoon and the expected weather, the fireground is being handed back to the landowners to manage. The exclusion zone for vessels near the Walter Peak shoreline has been lifted.
Some areas may continue to smoulder over the next few days and people may notice smoke. Flare-ups will be monitored and Fire and Emergency will respond if there are any indications that fire could spread outside the perimeter. A further aerial inspection of the fireground will be made on Monday.
Blair Kiely says a senior specialist fire investigator will undertake a formal investigation to determine the cause and origin of this week’s fire, in line with Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s standard procedures. That will include any connection with the controlled burn undertaken on the Walter Peak High Country Farm on 30 September.
This week’s fire has burned an estimated 1350 hectares of land, mostly on Walter Peak Station, Cecil Peak Station and adjoining Conservation Estate. Walter Peak High Country Farm and Walter Peak Station are separate properties, with different owners and management.
Blair Kiely thanked all the personnel involved in the fire response and acknowledged the importance of working together with the Department of Conservation, landowners and Iwi to bring the fire under control.
The cost of fighting the fire is being compiled.