Fire news

* The massive fire near tinder-dry Nelson has been burning since Tuesday. It was feared wind gusts could reach up to 50kmh yesterday which could heighten the fire danger.

* Residents in the Wai-iti area have been told to prepare to evacuate. More than 2600 people have been evacuated from their homes so far.

* The fire covers about 2300 hectares. It’s ‘‘almost certain’’ the fire was caused by agriculture machinery.

* At least one house near Nelson has been lost.