A significant wildfire has expanded across approximately 1,800 hectares of Tongariro National Park, one of New Zealand’s most treasured natural reserves. The blaze, which began on Saturday, has prompted large-scale evacuations and emergency response operations in the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Evacuation and Rescue Operations
Emergency services have successfully airlifted 43 hikers and a park warden to safety since the fire started, with nine additional evacuations conducted on Sunday. While no casualties or structural damage have been reported, evacuation efforts continue for campers and visitors in affected areas of the national park.
Firefighting Efforts and Containment
New Zealand Fire and Emergency services report that the wildfire is currently 20% contained. Assistant Commander officials have prioritized aerial operations, deploying five fixed-wing aircraft and twelve helicopters supported by ground crews. The challenging terrain and scale of the fire forced firefighters to pause operations overnight before resuming Sunday.
Park Closures and Impact
The fire has led to the closure of popular hiking trails, including the renowned Tongariro Crossing, and a section of State Highway 47. Authorities have also established a no-fly zone over the affected area to facilitate firefighting operations. The blaze initially covered 50 hectares when first reported Saturday afternoon but rapidly expanded due to weather conditions.
Historical Significance of the Park
Tongariro National Park holds significant cultural and environmental importance as New Zealand’s first national park, established in 1887. The 80,000-hectare park received UNESCO World Heritage status for both its natural landscapes and cultural value to the Māori people. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by authorities.