Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s investigation into the Port Hills fire, which began on 14 February 2024, has identified the exact location where the fire started but has been unable to determine what caused it.

said that after a thorough investigation, the fire’s specific origin was located on private property near Worsleys Road.

However, despite this discovery, investigators could not establish what sparked the fire. “We were unable to identify a specific ignition source. As the cause of the fire cannot be proven to an acceptable level of certainty, it is classified as undetermined. However, if further information becomes available, the investigation will be reopened,” Stackhouse said.

The blaze destroyed approximately 650 hectares of land, consuming a residential structure and damaging parts of the Christchurch Adventure Park.

Investigators determined the fire originated in an area of about five square metres, 50 metres off Worsleys Road.

However, the property owner advised there had been no activity or equipment in use on the day the fire started.

Due to privacy reasons, Fire and Emergency was legally unable to disclose further details about the exact origin point.

The investigation team, which included three experienced wildfire investigators working alongside police, conducted witness interviews and reviewed CCTV footage from the area.

While they thoroughly assessed various potential ignition sources—such as campfires, electric fences, and spontaneous combustion—none were confirmed.

Stackhouse acknowledged the frustration this outcome might cause for those affected by the fire. “We understand many people were hoping for more concrete answers, but unfortunately, we simply don’t have enough evidence to determine how the fire began,” he said.

The fire, which took nearly three weeks to fully contain, was fuelled by hot summer conditions and dry vegetation. Canterbury had been experiencing a warm, dry period leading up to the fire, creating ideal conditions for rapid fire spread.

Stackhouse reminded the public that this incident serves as a stark warning about the dangers of wildfire, especially as fire season approaches. “Now is the time to prepare. We urge the community to develop emergency plans, including for pets and livestock, and create defensible spaces around properties by removing flammable vegetation,” he said.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand expressed gratitude to the volunteers, staff, and partner agencies who worked tirelessly to control the fire. They also thanked the Christchurch community for their cooperation during the response.