Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand
Aggressive air attack and ground operations against the fire in the Tongariro National Park will continue until dusk, as efforts continue to bring the fire under control.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand Director of Operations, Brendan Nally, says that the fire is estimated to have burnt 322 hectares and is about 25 percent contained.
About 60 firefighters with 16 fire trucks supported by helicopters are working into the evening, with additional helicopters on the way. An incident management team has been established.
“We are hitting the fire hard and making the most of the daylight to try and get it contained,” Brendan Nally says.
Fire and Emergency is working closely with the Department of Conservation and Manawhenua, who are the managers and custodians of the whenua (land) and its sensitive environment and wahi tapu (sacred sites).
“We know that the community is anxious, as this comes so soon after last month’s fire in the same area. It’s particularly difficult for the people who live in the area and those who depend on the Maunga for their livelihood,” Brendan Nally says.
“We are planning for several days of operations. The objective is to contain the fire and then put it out.” Fixed wing aircraft will be joining the air attack tomorrow along with fresh crews of firefighters.
Brendan Nally says a fire investigation is underway, but initial indications are that it was not caused intentionally. “It’s understandable that people want to know how this fire started and they deserve facts, not rumours. We are working with Police to confirm the origin and cause of the fire and will provide more information when it is available.”
The Department of Conservation has asked visitors to leave Whakapapa Village as a precaution and has closed the Whakapapa Village tracks. Residents of the village have been advised to prepare for possible evacuation.
Fire and Emergency is advising other residents in the vicinity of the fire to avoid exposure to smoke from the fire by keeping their doors and windows closed.
SH47 from Waimarino to Tongariro is closed between the intersections of SH46 and SH48.
