Key Takeaways
- A large fire is burning in a forestry block near Waitara Road in Te Haroto, Hastings District, Hawke’s Bay
- Campers and hikers have been asked to evacuate the Boundary Stream Camp and Bell Rock Scenic Reserve
- Several fire crews are battling the blaze
- Pohokura Road is closed from the Tutira end due to the fire
- Temperatures in Hawke’s Bay reached the high-30s on Sunday, potentially contributing to the fire
Introduction to the Fire
A fire broke out in Hawke’s Bay in January 2026, prompting emergency services to ask campers and hikers to evacuate the area. The fire is located in a forestry block near Waitara Road in Te Haroto, within the Hastings District. The local council took to social media on Sunday night to warn people to stay away from the area and follow instructions from emergency services. This warning is crucial, as the fire has the potential to spread quickly and pose a significant threat to people in the surrounding area.
Location and Affected Areas
The fire is specifically located near Waitara Road in Te Haroto, which is a rural area in the Hastings District of Hawke’s Bay. The Boundary Stream Camp and Bell Rock Scenic Reserve, popular spots for camping and hiking, have been evacuated as a precautionary measure. Pohokura Road, which is a major road in the area, has been closed from the Tutira end due to the fire. This closure is likely to cause disruptions to traffic and travel plans, and people are advised to find alternative routes. The fire’s proximity to these areas and roads highlights the need for swift action to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading further.
Firefighting Efforts
Several fire crews have been deployed to battle the blaze, and they are working tirelessly to bring the fire under control. The exact number of firefighters and resources involved is not specified, but it is clear that a significant effort is being made to combat the fire. The firefighters are likely to be facing challenging conditions, including high temperatures and potentially strong winds, which can make it difficult to contain the fire. Despite these challenges, the firefighters are working to protect the surrounding area and prevent the fire from spreading to other parts of Hawke’s Bay.
Weather Conditions
The weather conditions in Hawke’s Bay on Sunday were conducive to the spread of the fire, with temperatures reaching the high-30s. High temperatures and dry conditions can create a perfect storm for wildfires, and it is likely that the hot weather played a role in the fire’s ignition and spread. The heatwave in the region may have also contributed to the fire’s rapid growth, making it essential for firefighters to act quickly to contain the blaze. As the weather forecast for the coming days is not provided, it is uncertain whether the conditions will improve or worsen, but it is crucial for the firefighters to be prepared for any eventuality.
Public Safety and Precautions
The public is advised to exercise caution and follow the instructions of emergency services. The council’s warning to stay away from the area and follow instructions from emergency services is a clear indication of the potential danger posed by the fire. People in the surrounding area should be aware of the fire’s location and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This includes staying informed about the fire’s progress, following evacuation orders, and being prepared to leave the area if instructed to do so. By taking these precautions, people can minimize their risk of being affected by the fire and help to prevent any potential accidents or injuries.
Conclusion and Ongoing Response
In conclusion, the fire in Hawke’s Bay is a significant incident that requires a swift and coordinated response from emergency services. The evacuation of the Boundary Stream Camp and Bell Rock Scenic Reserve, as well as the closure of Pohokura Road, highlights the seriousness of the situation. As the firefighters continue to battle the blaze, it is essential for the public to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of emergency services. The cause of the fire is not specified, and it is likely that an investigation will be conducted to determine the origin of the blaze. For now, the focus is on containing the fire and preventing it from spreading further, and the public can play a crucial role in supporting the firefighting efforts by staying informed and taking necessary precautions.
