Fire crews battle large vegetation fire in Northland forest, seven helicopters respond

Multiple fire crews are responding to a large vegetation fire located south of the Waipoua Settlement on Waipoua River Rd. Photo / NZME

Fire and Emergency crews continue to battle an expanding vegetation fire in the Waipoua Forest in Northland.

They were alerted to the Kaipara blaze around 2.15pm through a 111 call.

A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said the blaze had spread to 70ha with a 4km perimeter and was expected to grow.

“We have multiple ground crews and seven helicopters fighting the fire. Three additional helicopters will be arriving tomorrow from as far away as Taupō.”

The fire was located south of the Waipoua settlement on Waipoua River Rd.

“Police are assisting with evacuating dwellings in the Waipoua River Rd area. Structures are at risk but no structures have been lost,” the spokesperson said.

“This is likely to be a long-duration event. Fire and Emergency will continue attacking the fire until nightfall and will remain on-site for observation overnight.

“Helicopters and ground crews will ramp up activities at first light tomorrow and truck movement can be expected on the roads.”

Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.