Our 3-Step Escape Plan

  • First Escape Route
  • Second Escape Route
  • Meeting Place
Notes

Use this space to note any additional information about your escape plan, i.e. who will assist

Your checklist

  • Get low

    Smoke is poisonous and more deadly than flames.

    If you breathe smoke for more than a few breaths it can kill you.

  • Be fast

    A house fire can kill you in less than three minutes.

    Don't spend time trying to save possessions.

  • Close doors

    A closed door buys you time.

    It slows down the spread of fire, giving you more time to get to safety.

  • Get out - stay out!

    People have died by going back into a fire.

    Don't leave the meeting place to go back inside for any reason.

Call emergency services as soon as you are out and safe. Ask for FIRE.

Clearly state your address and let the operator know it anyone is still inside or has not made it to the safe meeting place.

Emergency call 111 Emergency text 111
Fire & Emergency New Zealand

Vegetation Fire at Walter Peak

Vegetation Fire at Walter Peak

6 October 2026

Fire and Emergency is responding to a large vegetation fire at Walter Peak station on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. 

Two helicopters with monsoon buckets are already at work to protect the Walter Peak homestead while other aircraft are on their way. Firefighters from Frankton and Glenorchy are being airlifted onto the fireground while crews from Mossburn are travelling by road.

Assistant District Commander Nic McQuillan said initial efforts are focused on protecting the homestead.

The fire is also spreading rapidly up the steep slopes of Mount Nicholas. Smoke from the fire is being blown across the lake towards Jacks Point and Hanleys Farm, and is likely to move towards Queenstown.

Residents in areas affected by the smoke should keep doors and windows closed to avoid exposure.

The fire has reignited from a planned burn in the area last Wednesday.

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