Tongariro National Park’s wildfire has surged in size overnight and remains out of control this morning, forcing air evacuations, road closures and a major aerial response on the Central Plateau. Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) said the blaze grew from a few hundred hectares on Saturday evening to roughly 1000–1100 hectares by Sunday, driven by wind and difficult terrain in Tongariro Forest and burning in the direction of Mt Ngāuruhoe.
Forty-three trampers and a hut warden were lifted out by helicopter as a precaution on Saturday night. There are no confirmed structural losses, but authorities warn conditions can shift quickly. State Highway 47 was closed last night between the SH48 and SH46 intersections due to smoke and operational needs. DOC has closed the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and parts of the Northern Circuit today while firefighting continues.
FENZ stood down ground crews overnight for safety and resumed the attack after first light with multiple helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. Assistant Commander Nick West said firefighters would “monitor the fire overnight” and re-engage when conditions allowed; more air support was added late this morning as the fire expanded. Forecast rain early this week could help, but crews are preparing for variable winds today.
People are urged to avoid the area, follow any instructions from emergency services, and keep doors and windows shut if affected by smoke. Travellers should check the latest road updates before heading across the Plateau. This is a developing situation; we’ll update as FENZ, DOC and transport agencies release new information.
Update 1:30pm Sunday: The fire has now spread to around 1,600ha – click below to read the latest update:
