21 February 2013

Tapora Fire

A fire stretching across 85 hectares of conservation land at Tapora, west of Wellsford, continues to burn in places today.

Bryan Cartelle, Principal Rural Fire Officer, says the fire service currently has a team of 26 volunteer rural firefighters working on the ground, supported by heavy machinery and aerial support.

“Our team, with the assistance of the Department of Conservation ground crews and forest contractors, worked overnight to dampen down hotspots and extend the current firebreaks.

“We are fighting this fire from the perimeter because, as the tall pines burn and fall, they are a real danger to anyone onsite. We will not take any risks with our team; safety is paramount.

“Locals can expect to see visible flames and smoke flare ups within the containment lines for some time yet. However, they can rest assured, no properties are under threat and our crews will be there day and night to monitor the containment,” he said.

A fire investigator is looking into the cause of the fire.

ENDS

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