Photo: GettyPolice say a drone has been seen flying in the vicinity of the massive fire near Nelson and are urging the pilot to ground it. "Drone activity has the potential to stop all helicopters responding to the emergency fire situation. This is extremely dangerous and our priority is to ensure the helicopters can continue with their work," police said, after reports of a drone flying in the Wakefield area. Sutton had seen the fire brushing past houses and paint blistered by the heat, but the houses were otherwise unscathed. He reassured residents he hadn't come in to "take over" but rather to offer support to the good work already happening fighting the blaze.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 06, 2019 22:07 UTC