Firefighting operations are continuing this morning (Monday January 10) to contain the fire burning near Glendhu Bay.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) incident controller Jason Sarich says conditions on the fireground were favourable overnight so no properties needed to be evacuated. 

A forecast change in wind direction did not eventuate and the relative humidity was low.

Jason said he flew over the fire this morning and estimates it is still about 200ha in size, covering steep terrain, which is challenging for the firefighters. 

There is still a large area of active fire, burning slowly in the current cooler conditions. 

“The priority this morning will be to establish hard containment lines as the temperatures are forecast to increase,” he said.

FENZ said at 7.30am there will be eight ground crews supported by eight helicopters, plus a ninth helicopter controlling the air attack. 

At 9am a landowner in the area told the Wānaka App the helicopters had been stood down and ground crew were now working on the remaining areas.

He said it was “gutting” that 35 years of regenerated native bush on the Department of Conservation estate had been damaged.

Read more: Emerald Bay fire damages estimated 200ha of bush

The fire started on DOC land near the lake and spread up the hill and across the road onto more DOC land and part of Glendhu Station.

The charred hillside, seen from West Wānaka Road. PHOTO: Supplied

The area was dry with a lot of flammable material, and a northerly wind was blowing at the time.

A change in wind direction overnight led to much of the south side of the Hospital Flat climbing area also being burned.

The fire crews include six from volunteer fire brigades in the Central Otago and Lakes District and two from the Department of Conservation.

The Mount Aspiring Road is currently closed (except for residents) and Jason is asking the public to stay away from the area.

A FENZ fire investigator will visit the scene today.