Whitianga devastated by fire

A fire raging in scrub on Comers Road. Photo: Baylee Wooldridge.

Around 100 hectares and six homes have been destroyed by a fire which broke out south of Whitianga yesterday.

The fire, in scrub on Comers Road, is still burning this morning, with 25 firefighters at the scene assisted by multiple water tankers and three helicopters.

'The helicopters are working on making it safe for the remaining homes in the area, while the ground crews are working on hot spots and accessible areas,” says Thames Valley principal rural fire officer Paul Shaw.

Among the properties destroyed is the Wilderland Trust, a well-known organic farm and self-reliant community.

Twenty-six people were evacuated last night from Comers Road and the Wilderlands property, all residents were accounted for and have been accommodated locally.

The fire burnt down to the water late last night and is now back-burning, says the Thames Coromandel District Council.

'All available rural and urban fire brigades, including the Department of Conservation, are on site with three helicopters to assist in containing the fire.

'The Thames Valley Civil Defence Emergency Operating Centre has been activated to assist with welfare of the evacuated residents.

'Welfare staff are currently checking on and assessing the needs of those evacuated and will set up a welfare centre once the needs are known.”

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1 comment

might

Posted on 18-01-2017 16:02 | By Capt_Kaveman

as well let it burn and use all resources to try contain and protect property


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