New Zealand’s Tongariro National Park has been battling a major wildfire since Saturday, with flames spreading across roughly 1,600 hectares of native bushland.
Authorities confirmed that while no casualties or property damage have occurred so far, the fire remains uncontrolled despite extensive air and ground operations.
Assistant Commander Craig Gold from Fire and Emergency New Zealand said air operations were being prioritised, with five fixed-wing aircraft and twelve helicopters deployed to douse the flames.
On the ground, four firefighting teams continue to combat the blaze, supported by additional crews coordinating aerial responses.
The wildfire was first reported on Saturday afternoon when it covered around 50 hectares. Within hours, the blaze expanded rapidly due to dry conditions and rugged terrain.
Early firefighting efforts involved local brigades and three helicopters.
However, due to the steep and hazardous landscape, authorities suspended overnight operations, as it was deemed unsafe to continue in the dark.
Evacuations and Closures Implemented
Authorities swiftly evacuated trampers and visitors from the national park, along with people staying in nearby lodges and facilities.
They temporarily closed the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and other popular walking trails to ensure public safety, and also shut down a section of State Highway 47 leading to the park.
Officials enforced a no-fly zone over the affected airspace to protect firefighting aircraft, restricting the operation of other planes and drones
Established in 1887, Tongariro National Park is New Zealand’s first national park, covering nearly 80,000 hectares.
It is a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site, recognised for both its natural landscapes and its cultural and spiritual importance to the Māori people.
The park’s volcanic peaks — including Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu — hold deep religious significance, symbolising the bond between Māori communities and their ancestral environment.
The fire has now placed this treasured ecosystem and heritage landscape at risk, threatening its diverse flora, fauna, and cultural landmarks.
Cause Under Investigation
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire. Investigations are ongoing to assess how the blaze began and whether environmental conditions, such as wind and heat, contributed to its rapid spread.
UNESCO recognised Tongariro in 1993 as the first property inscribed on the World Heritage List under the cultural landscape category, highlighting its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The current fire poses one of the most serious threats to this historic and ecological site in decades.
As crews continue to battle the flames, officials urge the public to stay away from the area and follow safety advisories until further notice.
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