News
The fire which started on Tiwai Point at 7:10 pm on Monday night was contained overnight and is approximately 130ha.
Two helicopters with night vision and fire crews worked through the night to contain the fire.
At times the fire was 400 meters from the smelter complex and 100 meters from the main lines that supply power to the smelter.
Fresh crews were bought in this morning to relieve the night shift and work continues to put the fire out
Incident Controller Tony Livingston said “the fire is burning in very dry scrubby fuels; we have been luck there has been very little wind associated with the fire which has assisted us in containing it”.
Video: One News
Winds are forecast from the north west to reach speeds of 24km/h during, however due to the coastal location of the fire, an afternoon sea breeze from a southerly quarter is expected to develop in the afternoon.
Fire crews and helicopters will continue to widen the perimeter of the fire to reduce the chance of the fire spreading if the wind increases.
Crews will continue to work around the clock to put the fire out. It is anticipated crews will be on site for a number of days to ensure the fire is out.
Currently working on site is
• 1 command unit
• 6 ground crews – including Department of Conservation, Tiwai, contract fire fighters and volunteer teams
• 4 tanker
• 8 Aircraft.