Story perspectives

Massive Fire in Tongariro National Park Sparks Emergency Response

12/8/2025

44 3

Summary

Story summary

Colin Baker of Ruapehu Scenic Shuttles reports a third-alarm fire in Tongariro National Park, triggering a five-engine, three-helicopter response.
The New Zealand Transport Agency closed State Highway 47 between Waimarino and Tongariro due to fires.
Karen Wickson of Adrift Tongariro says her Tongariro Crossing clients are safe, with no visible signs of fire.
The current blazes lie southeast of a previous park fire that burned thousands of hectares last month.

1 of 1

Story summary

Colin Baker of Ruapehu Scenic Shuttles reports a third-alarm fire in Tongariro National Park, triggering a five-engine, three-helicopter response.
The New Zealand Transport Agency closed State Highway 47 between Waimarino and Tongariro due to fires.
Karen Wickson of Adrift Tongariro says her Tongariro Crossing clients are safe, with no visible signs of fire.
The current blazes lie southeast of a previous park fire that burned thousands of hectares last month.