Residents evacuated as 13 crews fight Central Otago fire

Fire and Emergency New Zealand firefighters are working to contain a large grass fire at Springvale, near Clyde in Central Otago this evening which is threatening properties.

Thirteen crews from around the area are responding supported by four helicopters. Another five crews are on their way.

Fire and Emergency is also working alongside Police to support evacuations of impacted properties.

The fire is emitting a lot of smoke which is drifting towards Alexandra. If you are in the vicinity of the smoke, please stay inside and keep windows closed.

The public is also being warned to take extra care while undertaking any hot works in the area, for example welding, grinding and lawn mowing, as a large number of resources are responding to the fire at Springvale.

Fire and Emergency also asks the public to please stay away from the area so firefighters can do their job to contain the fire.