Coromandel wildfire: Drones identify multiple hotspots, authorities describe ‘arduous conditions’

Fire crews will today target multiple hotspots detected by thermal imaging overnight at the Kūaotunu scrub fire in Coromandel.

Fire and Emergency controller Shane Bromley said the wildfire would likely take a few more days work in “arduous conditions, working on steep slopes in high temperatures”.

Drones with thermal imaging equipment identified two areas with about 25 hotspots overnight, all on terrain that was more difficult to reach by foot.

Three crews from the Department of Conservation are at work today, alongside firefighters from the Kūaotunu Volunteer Fire Brigade and Whangapoua Volunteer Fire Brigade.

Two helicopters will continue working with monsoon buckets.

A helicopter involved in battling a vegetation fire on Black Jack Rd, Kūaotunu in the Coromandel Peninsula. Photo / Coromandel's CFM

Fenz said Black Jack Rd would be opened briefly every hour on the hour on Tuesday to let vehicles through and will close the rest of the time.

“This is to allow firefighters to work safely from the road while they are dealing with hotspots on the steep slopes above and below.

“It also gives time to remove debris washed off the slope to keep drivers safe.”

The walking track in the area is closed.

Firefighters have been battling strong winds and steep terrain to fight the fire at Kūaotunu, which broke out on Saturday.

Four fire crews supported by three helicopters were at work on the vegetation fire on Monday.