Firefighters are working to contain a large vegetation fire in Wānaka, which is being driven by strong north-westerly winds, as evacuations remain underway in the area.
Otago District Assistant Commander Nix Quillan told RNZ crews were still trying to dampen down the fire and needed to constantly reposition, as their hoses were not long enough to reach each hot spot.
"We can contain the fire, but we are having to reposition to reach each spot. We are hoping this wind will start to die down soon."
Fire and Emergency NZ was notified of the blaze in Albert Town at around 7.28pm on Saturday, with crews from Wanaka, Luggate, Lake Hawea and Cromwell responding.
The fire broke out in an area of scrub and trees behind residential houses on Lagoon Ave, Hunt Pl and McLellan Pl.
"Eight pumping appliances are now at the incident, as well as additional support vehicles", a spokesperson told 1News.
"The latest information shows that no houses are threatened and multiple points of attack are underway."
Police said they were notified at 7.30pm and were at the scene carrying out evacuations and controlling traffic. They did not say how many properties had been affected.
Eight fire crews are battling a blaze in Albert Town, with police carrying out evacuations — though Fire and Emergency says no houses are currently threatened. (Source: Supplied)
Footage and images from the scene show flames leaping well above the treeline, with the sky glowing a deep orange as the fire rips through vegetation.
One resident described embers flying down their street, with residents hosing down gardens nearby.
Queenstown Lakes District Council urged residents to follow the advice of emergency services.
"Stay safe everyone," they said in a statement posted to Facebook.
The circumstances surrounding the fire, including the extent of any damage and whether anyone has been injured, are not yet known.
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