Wanaka Scrub Fire Well Involved

What is being described as a significant scrub fire is in progress near Wanaka.

The blaze was reported to emergency services early this afternoon (Sun)

The blaze started on Glendhu Bluff and strong windy conditions have enabled the blaze to jump the road and spread quickly.

Fire crews from several centres around Central Otago are battling the blaze. Several helicopters have also been called in to try and get the blaze under control.

Wanaka Mt Aspiring Road at Glendhu Bay is closed around the area of the fire and people are being advised to stay well clear.

It’s reported that part of the area burning is Department of Conservation land, formerly part of Glendhu Station which was being retired for native regeneration.

Former Invercargill resident Julia Aspinall was one of the first to come across the fire and helped to turn traffic around and away from the fire.

Ms Aspinall says while most drivers stopped and turned around two or three just carried on.

She took these photos.