Kaimaumau blaze 65 percent contained, additional crews en route

2:03 pm on 30 December 2021

The Kaimaumau blaze in Northland, which has burned for nearly two weeks, is now 65 percent contained.

Heavy machinery was brought in to widen an existing track and create firebreaks, as well as around orchards, around Kaimaumau village on 20 December, 2021.

Heavy machinery was brought in to widen an existing track and create firebreaks, as well as around orchards, around Kaimaumau village on 20 December, 2021. Photo: Facebook / Northland - Fire and Emergency

Fire and Emergency spokesperson John Sutton says ground crews are being supported by helicopters today to establish and strengthen containment lines.

Sutton said today's conditions were not as favourable as earlier in the week, with wind gusts of up to 50 kilometres per hour forecast alongside a humidity drop.

He said flare-ups may occur in these conditions and extra aircraft have been placed on standby.

Additional crews will arrive tomorrow as volunteers become available after their holidays.

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