Evacuations in Otago township, firefighters battle several blazes

A scrub fire that forced evacuations in the central Otago town of Roxburgh is still uncontained, with crews battling the blaze into the night.Evacuations began Monday evening and hundreds of homes were without power in the area, with at least seven fire crews at work fighting the blaze.It was thought the fire started in trees about 2.45pm Monday, with strong winds adding to the problem.Fire and Emergency (FENZ) said crews were working to protect residential buildings and to contain the fire.Strong winds initially grounded efforts to fight the fire from the air, but conditions eased by about 6.30pm, allowing a helicopter to assist efforts until dark, FENZ said.Homes were evacuated on Ladysmith Road, east of Roxburgh township, by police and FENZ working together, and residents from six houses remained evacuated by 9pm Monday.Power had been disconnected earlier for more than 220 Roxburgh homes as a safety precaution, the Aurora Energy website said. But the number in the dark was listed as more than 30 homes by Monday night.Firefighters were also battling large blazes in Southland and near the Desert Road on Monday night, with much of the South Island and some of the lower North Island affected by rough weather which was moving up the country, prompting a raft of warnings or watches from MetService.Central Otago's orange level wind warning was lifted about 9pm Monday.Homes were evacuated on Ladysmith Road, east of Roxburgh township.Screenshot / Google MapsWinds fanning Otago fires, FENZ saysOtago firefighters had been battling several vegetation fires on Monday, with the wind making the situation worse.All of the fires had escalated quickly, FENZ District Commander Blair Kiely."Strong winds and warm temperatures mean that fires spread quickly and are much more difficult for our firefighters to contain and bring under control."The winds were so strong today that in most places we were not able to use aircraft."He thanked everyone who had pitched in to help on the holiday: "I would like to thank every firefighter who has responded to the fires across Otago today, and all those who have been in support roles."Giving up their Labour Day holiday to fight fires was a selfless act to support our communities."Crucial to prepare for El Niño, FENZ saysMost wildfires in New Zealand are caused by people, Kiely said. And with a dry El Niño season expected to peak during the New Zealand summer, these fires are a reminder of just how necessary preparation and care are."Fire and Emergency New Zealand is asking everyone to take extra care with fire outdoors as the region heads into what is expected to be a challenging wildfire season," he said."Everyone can help by taking extra care with fire and getting prepared now, before conditions get any drier."Anyone considering lighting a fire outside should check weather forecasts and visit www.checkitsalright.nz, Kiely said, and follow the fire season status advice for their area.