Fenz to remain at site of fire

Lake Ohau: Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) will maintain a small presence at Lake Ohau this weekend, as rain is predicted.

The MetService forecast 2mm of rain today, and up to 25mm in the area tomorrow.

Fire crews spent yesterday morning dampening hot spots, and erected a 50m fire containment line around 95% of the perimeter.

Fenz spokesman Rob Hands said the remaining 5% was an area of steep terrain, and had a 10m line in place.

The containment line ensured the fire could not spread if it reignited.

‘‘We have found a small number of hot spots around the western side of the village,’’ Mr Hands said.

The blaze, which was mostly contained, destroyed 48 structures in Lake Ohau Village and burnt through more than 5040ha since it started on Sunday morning.

Access to Lake Ohau Village remained limited, and the road was still closed to the public.

The investigation into the fire is under way.