Latest from Fires

Port Hills: State of emergency extended

The Port Hills will be in a state of emergency for another seven days after last week's fire.

More Port Hills cordons to go at 8am

Residents will have to show ID before being allowed to cross cordons on fire-ravaged Port Hills roads.

Editorial: Disasters need national response

It may be wondered whether a country of NZ's size and population is well served by such a fragmented civil defence organisation.

Fires in historic Auckland buildings tonight

The fires occurred at Bankside Cottage, which is more than 130 years old, and the George Courts building.

Port Hills fire latest: Some cordons remain

While firefighters are making progress with the Port Hills fires, the fire area remains at 2075ha this afternoon.

Historic villa: Police probe suspicious fire

Police are investigating a suspicious fire involving a historic Hastings villa that was due to be relocated to Waiheke Island.

'No mother wants a dead hero'

While stories of chopper pilot's courage in fighting the Taliban were shared, mum Leslie spoke about true heroes making a difference in people's lives.

More damaged property added to fire toll

Experts fear homes on the devastated Port Hills fire may be at risk of a new threat.

Public warned against exploring Port Hills

Civil Defence is reminding the public that the Port Hills fire and surrounding zones are off limits to everyone, including recreational users.

Hero helicopter pilot a symbol for unity

Watch: A 1990 video produced for the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi has resurfaced, and stars a then 10-year-old Steve Askin.

Light rain and winds help firefighter contain fire

Authorities working to contain the Port Hills fire are being helped by drizzle, which is forecast to turn to light rain this afternoon.

Fire evacuees frustrated at lack of info

Frustrated Port Hills locals are getting desperate to know when they will be allowed back onto their properties.

Ibis hotel evacuated after smoke in room

The entire hotel was evacuated while the source of the smoke was located.

Laughter amidst the ashes of ruins

Quakes and quakes, some flooding, more quakes, and now fires? Come on, Mother Nature, what's next?

Fear wind could reignite Port Hills

Hundreds of firefighters continued working around the clock last night, hosing down hot spots and smothering embers from the devastating Port Hills blaze.

Editorial: Christchurch hurt again

Christchurch must be wondering what it has done to deserve the ravages of nature.