Firefighters battle large Waiinu Beach fire, nearby residents may be evacuated

Ten urban and rural fire crews are in attendance at the Waiinu Beach Rd fire.

Waiinu Village residents may be evacuated after a large vegetation fire broke out near Waiinu Beach in South Taranaki.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand was notified of the fire about 2.05pm today.

Crews from 10 urban and rural stations are in attendance with fire trucks, a tanker, a command unit and an incident support vehicle.

Responding stations include Waverley, Pātea, Whanganui, Hāwera and Stratford.

A spokesperson said police were supporting Fire and Emergency after reports of pine trees on fire on Waiinu Beach Rd.

“Police are awaiting further updates on the fire and will assist in evacuation if required.”

A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said more information will be provided when they know more.