Kaikōura blaze: Fire crews battle large hedge fire north of Kaikōura

Schools and residents in Kaikōura are being evacuated because of multiple large fires.

Police said they have put cordons in plans and multiple roads in the area have been closed.

Those evacuated in the area have been advised to travel to Kaikōura High School or the Kaikōura Golf Course.

Marlborough District Council said that SH1 north of Kaikōura has been closed due to fires and fallen trees at Clarence and Waipapa Bay.

It was also advising motorists to not travel to Kaikōura this evening.

HAZARD ALERT: SH1 is closed north of Kaikoura due to fires and fallen trees at Clarence and Waipapa Bay. Please do not...

Posted by Marlborough District Council on Monday 20 October 2025

Kaikōura District council said that Takahanga Marae is the current welfare centre offering shelter and accommodation.

EVACUATION SHELTER LOCATIONS: Note the evacuation location for people impacted by the current events is NOT THE GOLF...

Posted by Kaikōura District Council on Monday 20 October 2025

Earlier, 14 fire crews responded to a hedge fire north of Kaikōura.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand said it was called to the blaze in Hāpuku at just after 1.30pm.

Crews from as far as Blenheim and Seddon were responding.

The fire had not yet been contained.

More to come ...