Tongariro blaze still burning

A wildfire is still raging in Tongariro National Park.

The fire, which started around 3pm on Saturday, is estimated to have burnt around 2500 hectares so far.

FENZ District Commander Nigel Dravitzki says this is likely to have increased slightly overnight. He says a more detailed survey will be completed throughout the day. The fire is currently 20% contained.

Firefighting was suspended overnight, and five planes and 15 helicopters will continue air battles once the weather clears. Ground crews were expected to resume this morning, with air crews waiting on mist to clear. 

Eight firefighting crews from Wellington and Hawkes Bay have been called in to assist ground efforts today. Seven crews from DOC as well as volunteer Firefighters from the Central Plateau are also expected.  

A rāhui has been placed by Ngāti Hikairo Ki Tongariro. One covers the Alpine crossing for a week and the other on burnt areas for an extended period to protect regrowth.   

As a precaution, 43 hikers were evacuated from Mangatepopo Hut yesterday and the park remains closed until further notice.  

Waka Kotahi has advised motorists to avoid the area with State Highway 47 closed. State Highway 48 will remain closed at the State Highway 4 intersection.

Waka Kotahi says these roads will remain closed for at least two days as the fire continues to burn.