'huge' scrub fire in Otago

Fire crews were kept busy in Central Otago last night battling a number of fires, including a large scrub fire near Alexandra.

A fire communications spokesperson said 12 appliances, as well as Department of Conservation crews, were called to the fire near State Highway 85, about eight kilometres northwest of Alexandra, just before midnight. The fire was on DOC land.

Nearby properties had to be protected from the blaze, which was fanned by strong winds.

Fire communications said a member of the public received burns to their face while battling the fire, and was treated by ambulance staff.

Fire crews tended to the fire until 3.30 am, before DOC staff took sole charge. 

Smaller fires were reported throughout Central Otago and the rest of the South Island.

Source: TVNZ