Walter Peak Vegetation Fire near Queenstown
Fire and Emergency is responding to a large vegetation fire at Walter Peak station on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Two helicopters with monsoon buckets are already at work to protect the Walter Peak homestead while other aircraft are on their way. Firefighters from Frankton and Glenorchy are being airlifted onto the fireground while crews from Mossburn are travelling by road.
Assistant District Commander Nic McQuillan said initial efforts are focused on protecting the homestead.
The fire is also spreading rapidly up the steep slopes of Mount Nicholas. Smoke from the fire is being blown across the lake towards Jacks Point and Hanleys Farm, and is likely to move towards Queenstown.
Residents in areas affected by the smoke should keep doors and windows closed to avoid exposure.
The fire has reignited from a planned burn in the area last Wednesday.
