South Island forest fire under control

A forest fire south of Oamaru is now under control.

Around 80 firefighters and four helicopters with water buckets battled to control the blaze which started last night at Moeraki .

It has destroyed pine trees owned by Blakeley Pacific Forests.

The Fire Service says operations have been handed over to the Department of Conservation, who will keep an eye out for any hot spots.

Waitaki rural fire officer Erick Spittal says early signs suggest the fire may have been deliberately lit.

- NEWSTALK ZB