Fire investigation continues; perpetrator liable for up to $10,000

Photo by James Beech.

Whoever was responsible for triggering the large scrub fire on Mt Rosa, Gibbston, late on February 17 is likely to be liable for the cost of the $5000 to $10,000 firefighting operation.

Up to 20 rural firefighters tackled the blaze, which scorched 14ha, virtually all, of the dry hillside vegetation above the Mt Rosa vineyard.

The vineyard and business on the flat were unscathed.

Queenstown Lakes District Council principal rural fire officer Gordon Bailey said last week the investigation was narrowing down who was responsible and it was not proven sparks from firearms used by roaming rabbit hunters started the fire.

The fire had not been officially declared extinguished almost a week after the emergency because embers could smoulder in undergrowth for weeks. However, recent rain would assist in dampening down the hill, Mr Bailey said.

The district-wide fire ban was still in force regardless of the weather, he said.