Homes evacuated

Firefighters say they have contained a large scrub fire that led to four homes being evacuated in the Far North. Fire and Emergency NZ spokesman Paul Radden said a blaze at Shipwreck Bay, Ahipara, was contained to 4.6 hectares and major structures in the area were protected. Fire services received multiple calls about the fire and at-risk homes were evacuated as crews battled the blaze that spanned 5 hectares at its height, and broke out in the early hours of yesterday morning. Six crews sent to the scene were withdrawn at 5am due to safety concerns but four helicopters and firefighters on the ground attacked it from first light. Forestry contractors would take over to mop up and overhaul vegetation so the fire did not reignite, Radden said. The Northland region has had a total fire ban since January 28 after a hot, dry summer with little rain.