Hawke's Bay fires 5pm update

22 Whiringa-ā-nuku 2025

Firefighters continue to actively work to bring the three active fires in the Pōrangahau area under control.

None of the fires have grown significantly in size since this morning, with ground crews working hard without support from helicopters, which had to be grounded due to the wind.

Incident Controller Tony Kelly says crews will be continuing to work tomorrow, although only if it is safe to do so.

"We do have wind warnings in place, but we will work when we can and be using heavy machinery to put in containment lines around the fires."

While no evacuation orders are expected overnight, people must remain vigilant and have a go-bag ready tomorrow in case the wind forces the fires towards Pōrangahau.

"The Pōrangahau Country Club, Wallingford Hall and Omakere Hall are all predesignated Community Emergency Hubs that are available to receive evacuees should the need arise. These will be managed by Central Hawke’s Bay District Council," Tony Kelly says.

There continues to be a lot of low lying smoke in the area, so the nearby residents, particularly those in Pōrangahau, are advised to keep windows and doors closed and avoid going into the smoke where possible.

Those impacted by the smoke can call their GP or HealthLine on 0800 611 116.

The public is also advised to not fly drones in the area, as air operations could commence with little or no notice if weather conditions allow, but this could not happen is a drone was sighted in the area.