Tongariro National Park Fire Enters Third Day as Rain Approaches

A significant fire continues to rage in Tongariro National Park, New Zealand, entering its third day as firefighters battle the flames. According to Fire and Emergency New Zealand, the fire has expanded to approximately 2,500 hectares and is currently only 20% contained. Fortunately, misty conditions have provided some respite, limiting fire growth overnight, and rain is forecast for later today.

District Commander Nigel Dravitzki stated that firefighting efforts will resume once the mist clears, with both ground crews and aerial operations prepared to take action. Dravitzki noted, “The fire size is likely to have increased a little from the estimated 2,500 hectares. A more detailed reconnaissance will be carried out when the weather improves.”

Weather predictions from MetService indicate mostly cloudy skies with widespread showers becoming heavy by the afternoon, along with possible thunderstorms. Currently, eight firefighters from Wellington and Hawkes Bay are joined by seven crews from the Department of Conservation, alongside local volunteer firefighters from Central Plateau brigades. Dravitzki acknowledged the dedication of local volunteers: “Many of the local volunteer firefighters have come forward to help today, as they did over the weekend. It’s their whenua and they have a stake in protecting it.”

Emergency Response and Community Impact

In total, there are 15 helicopters and five fixed-wing planes on standby to assist once conditions improve. The local hapū, Ngati Hikairo, has placed a rāhui on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing for one week, allowing the land to rest and recover. A second rāhui applies to areas affected by the fire to facilitate natural regrowth and healing.

Fire and Emergency Commander Glen Varcoe reported that conditions overnight were favorable, although two active burning fronts remain. “We’ve still got two burning fronts that are active, but not as active as yesterday,” Varcoe commented. As a precaution, Whakapapa Village was evacuated on Sunday night, and over 40 hikers were evacuated from the Tongariro Crossing on Saturday.

Eyewitness accounts describe a surreal scene. Hiker Daisy Bao reported seeing ashes fall from the sky during her trek, stating, “It felt like the end of the world. I’ve never seen the sun like that before, red and pink, glowing behind the smoke.”

Fire Investigation and Future Outlook

Local business owner Sam Clarkson, who observed the fire from his roof, likened the landscape to “Mordor country,” referencing the iconic setting from the *Lord of the Rings* films. A hunter in the area reported witnessing at least 10 scrub piles burning prior to the larger blaze.

Despite the ongoing situation, the cause of the fire remains undetermined. Varcoe stated, “We’ve got three fire investigators who are experienced that are working through that now, so we’re probably not going to know that for a few days.” Fire crews from across the North Island have joined the efforts, with full extinguishment and dampening of hot spots expected to take up to one week.

Those evacuated from Whakapapa Village will likely receive updates later today on when they can return home. As the situation develops, the community remains hopeful for improved weather conditions that could aid in controlling the fire.