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

Waiau Fire update #6

Waiau Fire update #6

29 October 2026

Conditions on the Waiouru fireground have been challenging today due to strong winds.

A coordinated response involving 74 operational personnel and 17 Incident Management Team members from Fire and Emergency, the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and the Department of Conservation (DOC) have targeted hotspots as part of the ongoing efforts to secure the perimeter of the fireground.

Incident Controller Ben Cozens says drone operations will resume tonight if conditions allow. The drones identify hotspots and provide information about areas where firefighters will be working that enables them to operate safely in these areas.

Weather conditions forecast tomorrow are for increased winds with some rainfall. While rain would reduce fire activity, it may make access and firefighting more challenging for our people on the ground.  

Due to the complex terrain and fuel types, this fire will likely take several more days to bring completely under control.

Ben Cozens acknowledges the significant contribution from Fire and Emergency volunteers and the impact that this has had on their families and employers, who have enabled them to respond to this incident.

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