A runaway burn-off near Lawrence has doubled in size this evening as firefighters prepare to suspend operations due to strong winds. The fire began when a burn-off raced out of control this afternoon near Roughan Rd, south-west of Lawrence towards Tuapeka Flat. Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesman Mau Barbara said about 9pm crews at the scene would suspend operations overnight after about an hour's more firefighting. Crews from Lawrence, Waitahuna, Clutha Valley and Waihola had been dispatched to the scene near Roughan Rd, south-west of Lawrence towards Tuapeka Flat. The fire had spread to about 10 hectares by 6pm and had started to engulf a small strand of pine trees.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 31, 2019 08:03 UTC