Watch: New footage shows devastating extent of 300-hectare Waikari Valley fire

  • 19/02/2024

New footage shows the devastating extent of the Waikari Valley fire.

The 300-hectare fire remains active, fanned by high winds in the area on Monday.

Fire and Emergency (FENZ) said the fire had jumped its containment line in the afternoon, but more than 50 firefighters, with assistance from two helicopters, have been working successfully to contain it once again.

"We are pleased with the progress made today and have allowed residents to return home but remain vigilant and prepared for another evacuation," Incident Commander Des Irving said in a statement. 

Due to high winds, only two helicopters with specialised equipment have been operating today. Ground crews will monitor the fire through the night.

Watch the video above

A helicopter dumps water on the fire in difficult flying conditions.
A helicopter dumps water on the fire in difficult flying conditions. Photo credit: George Heard / Pool
A firefighter walks through the burnt shrub.
A firefighter walks through the burnt shrub. Photo credit: George Heard / Pool
A scorched hillside near Waipara, North Canterbury.
A scorched hillside. Photo credit: George Heard / Pool
Powerlines cross the scorched hillside.
Powerlines cross the scorched hillside. Photo credit: George Heard / Pool
A plane fights the fire.
A plane fights the fire. Photo credit: George Heard / Pool
A helicopter douses the hillside.
A helicopter douses the hillside. Photo credit: George Heard / Pool