Raw: Massive Marlborough fire

Tankers, helicopters and water bomber planes joined the huge fire-fighting effort today where the blaze raged across more than 100 hectares near Onamalutu, outside Renwick. The fire, which broke out last night, was also threatening homes and it was expected to take days or possibly weeks to completely extinguish the blaze. Dry, hot weather lately had created tinderbox conditions in many parts of the South Island.