A vegetation fire near Gunn Rd in Albert Town threatens new
houses. Photo by Lisa Prince.
The cause of the vegetation fire in the Hikuwai
Conservation Area near Albert Town on Thursday evening is being
investigated by three government agencies.
Department of Conservation fire response co-ordinator Paul
Hondelink said yesterday the department's rural fire team was
leading the investigation but police and the New Zealand Fire
Service were also investigating.
The cause was ''unknown at this stage'', Mr Hondelink said.
The fire burnt about 2ha of vegetation alongside Gunn Rd but
wind-blown embers started a fire in Bernard Rd, about 150m
away, which caused structural damage to a house.
The department appreciated the quick response of fire service
units from Hawea, Luggate and Wanaka and ''numerous members
of the public, the police and contractors who assisted'', Mr
Hondelink said. Residents and passers-by fought fires that
began in properties across Gunn Rd from the conservation
area.
Householders with damage to their properties are being asked
by Doc to contact their insurance companies first.
Householders with property damage not covered by insurance
should contact the Doc Wanaka area office, Mr Hondelink said.
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