
Firefighters strengthen the perimeter of West Melton fire
Firefighters supported by four helicopters strengthen the perimeter of the West Melton fire ahead of strong northwest winds forecast to develop later today. Video / Katie Oliver
Firefighters supported by four helicopters strengthen the perimeter of the West Melton fire ahead of strong northwest winds forecast to develop later today. Video / Katie Oliver
Fire crews battle to contain a large fire in Canterbury's West Melton overnight and Syria celebrates the end of the Assad family's 50-year regime. Video / NZ Herald
Fire and Emergency says a caravan park is being evacuated tonight in West Melton.
High fire risk in Northland: 'Avoid lighting fires' as winds worsen dry conditions.
'We’re trying to avert the possibility of catastrophic wildfires in Hawke’s Bay.'
The fire closed State Highway 73, burning through more than 1000ha at Bridge Hill.
UV levels are also extreme while strong winds predicted to gust up to 150km/h.
The fire has spread to 980ha and is still not contained.
The fire started at the top of Waikite Rd on Wednesday; the area remains off-limits.
Temperatures came on a day with a strong wind watch in place for all of Hawke’s Bay.
Canterbury Fire and Emergency has reported the fire, which is about 140 hectares in size, is near Bridge Hill, Canterbury. Video / Canterbury Fire and Emergency
Emergency services were called to the scene about 6.15pm.
Police said further information would be released when they're in a position to do so.
More than 10 fire trucks are fighting the blaze.
A helicopter and monsoon bucket, along with multiple fire crews, are fighting a scrub fire in Welcome Bay. Video / Sonya Bateson
Firefighters were tied up for 10 hours dealing with fire in young pines in a forest.
MetService has issued heat alerts for known hotspots, with warm nights keeping temps high.
A prohibited fire season notice is now in place.
There have been 69 vegetation fires in the last month.
'My emotions are pretty up and down at the moment ... I'm trying to deal with it.'
One person described seeing large plumes of black smoke coming from the site.
The blaze caused significant damage to the top floor of the family's house.
A cheap phone charger bought online resulted in a fire which tore through a family home.
'It’s so sad because Christmas is coming and suddenly we have this. It’s unbelievable.'
The incidents are being investigated and firefighters may face disciplinary action.
'Some of our students have been impacted by fumes,' a statement said.
The call to Queensland was for advice on chemicals stored inside.
One person was trapped and had to be rescued by firefighters.
One ambulance was sent to the incident on Kura St, Whatawhata.
A police spokesperson said the incident was reported just after 8.45am.