Drones halt firefighting efforts

Illegal drones flying over Christchurch’s Port Hills are delaying firefighting efforts and putting the safety of helicopter pilots at risk, authorities say.

Fire remains active in the Christchurch Adventure Park, but helicopters tackling the blaze were grounded three times on Tuesday due to drones flying over the area.

The park was part of a no-fly zone in place over much of the Port Hills until at least midnight tomorrow.

Park spokeswoman Anne Newman said the drone use was ‘‘incredibly concerning and frustrating’’.

‘‘It is . . . jeopardising the safety of the pilots,’’ she said.

Fire Service personnel were using a drone for thermal and infrared imaging on Tuesday, but a Civil Defence spokeswoman said there had been reports of other drones being used.

‘‘Flying drones in this area illegally will be taken very seriously, as it compromises critical aerial firefighting operations and safety.’’

The Port Hill fires, which started on February 13, ripped through about 2075 hectares, forcing 450 houses to be evacuated, destroying nine homes and partially damaging two.

The fire was contained ahead of the adventure park’s village and base station, but there was significant damage to the lift and rest of the park, Newman said.

‘‘We are unable to assess the extent of the damage or how long it will take until the fires are out.’’

Firefighters made good progress in other parts of the Port Hills yesterday and were able to pull back from the Worsleys area, though warned people needed to stay vigilant in case of flare ups.

Barriers were removed from Rapaki Track and tracks in Mt Vernon Farm Park yesterday, and residents from 51 homes on Worsleys Rd were allowed to return home.