Update on Port Hills fires -12.30pm

Fire-fighting conditions

Drizzle is falling and expected to turn to light rain with north easterly winds. These will be good conditions for firefighters blacking out the fire perimeter.
The protection of property is again being given high priority.

The Fire Service remains concerned about the area around Victoria Park and east of Dyers Pass Road, Marleys Hill electronic equipment and the southern flank of the fire which has terrain and vegetation that suitable for fire spread.

Heavy machinery is being used to establish fire containment lines. This is difficult and dangerous work in steep and uneven terrain.

Geotechnical experts are continuing work to assess the risk of rock-fall in areas where there has been significant loss of vegetation.

Cordons

Cordons remain in place in Worsleys Road, Kennedys Bush Road, Dyers Pass Road at the Sign of the Takahe, and at the top of Huntsbury Avenue.

Residents are thanked for their patience as risks continue to be assessed around whether or not these cordons can be moved or lifted. Safety is paramount and access can be made available only when the Fire Service determines the risk to be at an acceptable level.

Police and the NZ Defence Force continue to patrol in and around the cordoned areas.

Residents who are not yet able to return home are encouraged to register to gain access to their property for the purposes of collecting critical items, checking on animals. Around 100 registrations have been received. Civil defence will be in touch with these people today to arrange access to their properties as soon as possible.

Residents’ meeting

A meeting for affected residents has been held this morning. About 400 people attended. It was a valuable opportunity for emergency services to explain to residents the current situation and to hear residents’ feedback and concerns. We are now acting to address the issues raised.

Health message

Medical Officer of Health Alistair Humphrey: “We are aware that some people evacuated have left their medications behind. If you need a repeat script, you can get this from any of the after-hour health clinics. Pharmacists can access people’s medication records, so are able to dispense emergency supplies of medication.’’

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