Subj : Scrub fire in Akl's Helensville contained, road remains closed
To   : All
From : News
Date : Thu Apr 11 2024 11:55 am

Part of State Highway 16 in Auckland's Helensville remains closed this
morning after firefighters worked to contain a large vegetation fire that
threatened a home.


The highway is still closed between Inland Rd and Pipitiwai Dr north of
Helensville. Firefighters were called to the fire at 3.35am.


In an update shortly after 11am, Fire and Emergency confirmed the blaze had
been contained.


"A fire investigator is now on site and will work to determine a cause of the
fire."

Fire and Emergency Assistant Commander Shaun Thornton earlier said there were
12 fire trucks at the scene, along with tankers.


"We're really just trying to contain the fire and waiting for first light
when we're going to consider getting helicopters in to help douse the fire,"
he said.


The one-hectare fire was partially contained shortly before 8am, when
approximately 40 firefighters were in attendance along with a helicopter.

Thornton said the rain recently "has helped" but the nature of the fire site
was still hazardous due to the wild pines that could fall across the road.


A police spokesperson said a man was located near the address and is
assisting officers with their inquiries.


"Inquiries into the circumstances of the fire are ongoing."


Auckland Transport said three bus stops - 4968, 4974 and 4975 - are closed
until further notice.


UPDATE 9:05AM
This section of #SH16 north of Helensville remains closed as emergency
services continue work to manage this large bush fire. Delay your journey or
allow extra time for alternative route via local roads:
https://t.co/y3U7KHBYGI ^TP https://t.co/x30duGDeK1

- Waka Kotahi NZTA Auckland & Northland (@WakaKotahiAkNth) April 10, 2024
A Helensville local preparing for their day earlier told 1News "a quarter of
my route is blocked", and that stop/go traffic management was in place.

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