Firefighting resumed at Walter Peak at 7am today

Firefighting resumed at Walter Peak at 7am today, with air and ground operations underway.

Four helicopters equipped with monsoon buckets are cooling hotspots and dampening the fire perimeter, with a fifth helicopter used as an aerial platform to direct the air attack.

There are 11 firefighters on the ground, with additional crews arriving throughout the day to bring the numbers on the ground up to 25.

Assistant District Commander Nic McQuillan says the protection of Walter Peak Station homestead and farm stock remain the priority.

While overnight conditions were relatively favourable, the fire has continued to grow and is now estimated at approximately 1,200 hectares. The size is likely to increase if the fire becomes more active due to weather conditions.

Members of the public on the lake are reminded to stay at least 500 metres offshore to keep clear of where our helicopters are operating. This exclusion zone will be monitored by the Harbourmaster and Coastguard throughout the day to ensure public and firefighter safety.

Smoke conditions may worsen in some areas on the opposite side of the lake during the day. Residents affected by smoke are advised to keep windows and doors closed and limit exposure where possible.