Firefighters from multiple brigades are tackling a series of vegetation fires across Central and Coastal Otago today, prompting Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) to activate its Regional Coordination Centre in Dunedin.

Strong winds, warm temperatures, and low humidity are creating challenging conditions for crews on the ground.

Otago District Commander Phil Marsh urged residents to exercise caution. “People should always check the weather forecast and consult the Check It’s Alright website before lighting outdoor fires,” he said. “Some parts of Otago are already in a restricted fire season, meaning permits are required.

Even if no permit is needed, windy conditions are a clear signal to refrain from lighting a fire and to check old fire sites to make sure they are not reigniting.”

This morning, crews were called to a fire on Scotland Street/State Highway 8 on the outskirts of Roxburgh, followed by another fire just a few kilometres away on Wright Road. Firefighters from Roxburgh, Dunstan, Millers Flat, Alexandra, and Tapanui brigades, supported by two helicopters, worked together to bring both blazes under control. As of 3.30 pm, crews were still managing hotspots in the area.

Firefighters are also battling a large blaze in forestry slash on Taieri Mouth Road at Kuri Bush, south of Dunedin. The fire, reported at 1.40 pm, has drawn crews from Balclutha, Brighton, Lookout Point, Port Chalmers, Waihola, and Wakari.

Shortly after, another scrub fire broke out between Lawrence and Waitahuna. Firefighters from Lawrence, Waitahuna, Balclutha, and Milton were able to bring it under control by 3 pm.

New challenges emerged when a slash fire on View Street in Balclutha spread into nearby trees just after 3 pm. As of 3.20 pm, firefighters were still working to control the fire, using water directly from the Clutha River.