Tongariro National Park’s wildfire has expanded to an estimated 1600 hectares, prompting precautionary evacuations and an escalation of the aerial firefight on Sunday, 9 November. Authorities say extra aircraft have been deployed as crews work to contain multiple flanks in difficult terrain, with shifting winds continuing to test operations.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand confirmed evacuations of several nearby facilities as a safety measure while helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft attack the fire front. Ground crews were rotated back in after being stood down overnight for safety, with investigators also assessing how the blaze began.
Access across the Central Plateau remains heavily disrupted. State Highway 47 is closed between SH46 and SH48, with transport officials advising motorists to avoid the area and check for updates before travelling. The Department of Conservation has closed the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and sections of the Northern Circuit while suppression continues.
Emergency services are asking the public to stay clear of the park, follow instructions from officials, and keep doors and windows shut if smoke affects nearby communities. This is a live situation and updates will follow as FENZ, DOC, and transport agencies release new information.
