Firefighters to return to Waikato bush fire after evacuations last night

Firefighters will continue to battle a large bush fire in Port Waikato this morning that forced evacuations last night.

Fourteen homes were evacuated overnight. A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said residents were allowed home last night.

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Firefighters were called to the Maunsell Rd, Waikato, fire at 1.40pm yesterday after the 4ha-sized blaze broke out.

Northern Communication Centre shift manager Josh Pennefather told RNZ that the blaze was “spreading rapidly”.

“We are working to protect those who have been put at risk by the fire.”

Three helicopters, seven firetrucks and one water tanker were at the scene.

Crews will return to the scene this morning.