Fire at Dome Forest, Matakana

Firefighters have a new fire on their hands today, with 70 hectares of forest and scrub-land, bounding conservation land burning in Wright Road, Matakana.

The authorities were alerted to the fire late yesterday and have been working through the night.

43 volunteer rural firefighters are on the ground along with additional support from the New Zealand Fire Service, Auckland Rural Fire District and forest companies. Heavy machinery and aerial support is being used.

Bryan Cartelle, Principal Rural Fire Officer, says the team worked hard overnight to contain the flames and dampen down hot spots.

“We are working as quickly as we can to contain the fire however locals can expect to see visible flames and smoke for some time yet. We would like to remind everyone to keep well away from the fire ground – as always safety is our first concern,” he says.

This is the second fire to strike the area this week, the first, west of Wellsford in Tapora is contained but still active and crew remain on site.

“Again we remind Aucklanders that there is currently a complete fire ban across the region and stress this must be taken seriously by everyone as we continue to face extreme fire danger.”

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined however an investigation will be carried out. No properties are under threat.

Several water tankers are also supporting the fire operation, which will impact on residential water deliveries in the Matakana area. We are working to release these tankers as soon as possible.

ENDS

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