A large scrub fire near Hastings, New Zealand, prompted overnight evacuations and resulted in the destruction of multiple buildings, including two homes. One person was hospitalized as a result of the blaze.
Firefighters Battle Hastings Blaze
The fire began Tuesday afternoon between the Fernhill township and the Ngaruroro River Bridge on State Highway 50 (SH50). Despite efforts from multiple ground crews working until dark, the fire was described as “contained but not under control” by Fire and Emergency assistant commander Jason Hill, with pockets of fire continuing to burn within the perimeter.
Crews planned to focus on fully controlling the fire on Wednesday morning, and an investigation into the cause will begin. A section of SH50 in Fernhill remains closed, and the public is advised to avoid the area.
Impact on Residents and Property
Residents in and around the Farmhouse Lodge accommodation were forced to evacuate and will remain displaced overnight with assistance from Civil Defence. Farmhouse Lodge owner Dawson Bliss reported that his property, consisting of a main building and approximately 25 cabins, may have sustained damage, but a full assessment is pending. Bliss noted that fire breaks he had previously installed on the hilly property “did the job quite well.”
A separate scrub fire near Havelock North also posed a threat to houses, though it was reported as contained. Residents in that area were advised to prepare to evacuate if they felt unsafe.
Hastings mayor Wendy Schollum expressed sympathy for those affected and emphasized the importance of adhering to existing fire bans, citing recent high temperatures and strong winds as contributing factors. Multiple fire restrictions are currently in place throughout Hawke’s Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire?
The cause of the fire is currently unknown. An investigation is scheduled to begin on Wednesday morning, according to Fire and Emergency assistant commander Jason Hill.
Are there any evacuations still in place?
Residents in and around the Farmhouse Lodge accommodation were evacuated and are expected to remain displaced overnight. While the fire near Havelock North is contained, nearby residents were advised to prepare to evacuate if they felt unsafe.
Is SH50 open?
No, a section of SH50 in Fernhill remains closed and will remain closed overnight, according to police. The public is advised to avoid the area and take alternate routes.
As firefighters continue to patrol the scene and investigate the cause, the full extent of the damage and the timeline for residents’ return remain uncertain.
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