New Zealand / Northland

Northland fire bursts into life again after being nearly contained

19:57 pm on 19 December 2021

A large fire in Northland's Kaimaumau has spread again after being almost fully-contained this morning.

Photo: SUPPLIED

Firefighters say the 350 hectare blaze near Houhora in the Far North will take another 24 hours to bring under control.

It has already been burning for more than 24 hours, and crews had hoped to have it fully contained by the end of the day.

The Fire and Emergency incident controller, Kevin Ihaka, said a spot fire jumped across the containment line, and had expanded the fire by about 25 percent.

He said the spread was likely to set back the mission by 24 hours.

Fire crews and seven helicopters with monsoon buckets are at the scene.

The fire was first reported shortly before 1.30pm yesterday.

Members of the public have been asked to avoid the area.