Key Takeaways
- A large vegetation fire is currently being battled in the vicinity of Tongariro National Park, with five helicopters and 10 trucks in attendance.
- The fire is approximately 110 hectares in size and has prompted evacuation warnings for residents in the area.
- This is the second major fire in the region in just a month, with a devastating wildfire scorching 3000 hectares of the national park in November.
- Emergency services are working to contain the fire, with crews from multiple districts and support vehicles on the scene.
- The fire has caused the closure of State Highway 47 and has forced visitors to the Whakapapa area to leave.
Introduction to the Fire
The Tongariro National Park is currently experiencing a large vegetation fire, with emergency services battling the blaze to prevent it from spreading. The fire was first reported at 1:10 pm on Monday and has quickly grown to approximately 110 hectares in size. Five helicopters and 10 trucks are currently in attendance, working to contain the fire and prevent it from causing further damage. The fire is located near the site of a devastating wildfire that occurred in November, which scorched 3000 hectares of the national park.
Response to the Fire
Emergency services are taking the fire very seriously, with crews from multiple districts, including National Park, Owhango, Whakapapa, Ruapehu Rural, Waimarino Rural, Turangi, Southern Lake Taupo Rural, and Whanganui, working to contain the blaze. The Department of Conservation has asked visitors to the Whakapapa area and tracks to leave, and residents have been contacted to prepare for evacuation if necessary. The fire has also caused the closure of State Highway 47, with NZTA advising motorists to follow the detour and allow extra time for travel.
Impact of the Fire
The fire is having a significant impact on the local community, with many residents and visitors being forced to evacuate the area. Shane Isherwood, a shuttle operator for the Tongariro Crossing, described the fire as "devastating" and said that it was "just down the road" from where the November blaze began. Michaela Watson, who was tramping in the area, said that the fire happened quickly, with smoke and flames visible just 40 minutes after she and her group completed a walk. The fire is also causing disruptions to travel, with State Highway 47 closed and motorists being advised to avoid the area.
Previous Fire in the Region
This is not the first major fire to occur in the region in recent times. Just last month, a devastating wildfire scorched 3000 hectares of the Tongariro National Park, burning out of control for almost three days. The fire triggered evacuations of trampers and residents, and helicopters, planes, and ground crews were required to contain it. The fire was eventually brought under control, but not before it had caused significant damage to the national park.
Ongoing Efforts to Contain the Fire
Efforts to contain the current fire are ongoing, with emergency services working tirelessly to prevent the blaze from spreading. The fire is being closely monitored, with the Ruapehu District Council’s Civil Defence team ready to stand up resources to assist with the response if required. The NZTA is also working to ensure that motorists are aware of the closure of State Highway 47 and are taking necessary precautions to avoid the area. As the situation continues to unfold, it is likely that further updates will be provided, and residents and visitors to the area are advised to stay informed and follow the instructions of emergency services.
