Fire brigade call-out not necessary

A ''massive'' cloud of smoke from a controlled burn-off blots the sky between Queensberry and Pisa Moorings yesterday. The fire was expected to get larger overnight, but posed no immediate danger to the public.

The Luggate Volunteer Fire Brigade was called to the fire at 5pm yesterday, but was stood down when it discovered it was a controlled burn-off the brigade had not been made aware of.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesman Andrew Norris said ''massive'' clouds of smoke were coming from the fire.

''We believe it's going to burn overnight and it is going to get bigger overnight.''

The fire would be left in the hands of the landowner, who was believed to have it under control.

It was in the hills out of vehicle range and posed no danger to the public, he said.