twizel_fire_.jpg The fire was first reported in a grassy area, but strong winds caused the fire to spread to a forestry plantation. Photo: Graeme PennellEvacuations are under way near Twizel in the Mackenzie District as a fast-moving fire sweeps through the area. At 11.25am Fire and Emergency New Zealand received "multiple calls" of a fire off the Mt Cook Rd (State Highway 80) off Dusky Trail, a spokesman said. Police were evacuating properties along State Highway 80. The fire was first reported in a grassy area, but strong winds caused the fire to spread "relatively quickly" to a forestry plantation.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 30, 2020 00:33 UTC