Scrub fire in Far North contained

Firefighters have been battling a scrub blaze in the Far North.

Thirty hectares of scrubland went up in flames in Kaingaroa, near Kaitaia.

Helicopters and ground crews have contained the blaze.

Fire and Emergency said firefighters would stay on site to look for any hotspots.

It said no houses were in danger.

Meanwhile, fire crews are continuing to monitor a pine forest fire that broke out near Wanaka late yesterday afternoon.

Around 5-10 hectares of pine forest were affected on the slopes of Mount Maude to the south-west of Lake Hawea township.

The fire was contained last night but firefighters remained on-site overnight, putting out hotspots.

Another crew took over this morning and will remain there for most of the day.

The six households who had to evacuate will collect belongings this morning.

It is understood they may be able to return permanently later today.

Helicopters are on standby, while four ground crews assess the damage and contain hot spots.

Deputy Principal Rural Fire Officer for Central Otago Mark Mawhinney said emergency services would continue to monitor the affected area over the weekend.

"The fire is not spreading at this stage. Given the strength of the wind and the fact that the fire didn't spread overnight we're comfortable with the current situation," he said.
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