News
- A large vegetation fire near Tiwai Point has burned through approximately 120 hectares overnight.
- Fire crews, including 40 firefighters and 10 trucks, are working to control the blaze.
- Aerial support with five helicopters operating since first light to assist firefighting efforts.
A significant vegetation fire near Tiwai Point has been burning since around midnight, with fire and emergency crews working through the night to contain it. The fire remains uncontrolled, with approximately 120 hectares affected.
Related: Tiwai Peninsula Vegetation Fire Update
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) has deployed extensive resources, including 10 fire trucks and around 35 firefighters battling the blaze. Aerial support will be introduced at first light, with five helicopters assisting in firefighting efforts.
Despite the fire’s scale, there is no current threat to the Tiwai aluminium smelter or any nearby homes. Authorities are urging people to stay away from the area to allow emergency crews to continue their work safely.
“It’s too early to determine the cause of the fire,” said a spokesperson for FENZ. “At this stage, our focus is on bringing it under control.”
Firefighters are expected to remain on-site throughout the day, with efforts ramping up as conditions allow for aerial water drops and further assessments of the fire's spread.
More updates will follow as the situation develops.
