Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Lee Valley Fire - THE LATEST UPDATE - Voluntary Firemen and Firewomen inundated with baking from the community

 







Lee Valley Fire 

Updates from Fire and Emergency NZ


Credit Photo Fire and Emergency NZ

Lee Valley Fire Update #9

9/02/2024

We have established the 1.2-kilometre containment line at the Lee Valley fire.


Incident Controller Steve Trigg says the hard work of the crews in tough conditions had paid off.


“We have a satisfactory containment line in and we’ve been able to give residents of evacuated homes restricted access to their properties.


“This is a big step, but we still have a lot of work ahead of us to extinguish this fire.”


Crews will monitor the fire ground overnight, with more firefighters and helicopters back in operation tomorrow as extinguishment work continues.


The investigation is ongoing, however suspicious causes have been eliminated. 


With more sunshine and warm weather ahead for the next week, it’s again an important reminder to be vigilant around activities that can generate sparks during this very dry fire season, and that a simple spark can have devastating impacts on people, property and the environment, as well as pets and livestock.


This will be the final update for the day unless significant developments occur. The next update is expected to be mid-morning on Saturday.

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Latest photo from Fire and Emergency NZ

Lee Valley Fire Update #8

9/02/2024

Voluntary Firemen and Firewomen inundated with baking from the community 


Our focus at the fire today is to complete the 1.2-kilometre containment line required around the perimeter of the fire.


This requires firefighters to work in steep terrain using hand tools to clear a space of vegetation twenty metres wide.


We are aiming to complete the containment line by the end of the day.


Once the containment line is completed we hope to be able to return evacuated residents to their homes either today or tomorrow, opening the road to residents only, with restricted speed limits in place.


We have also been inundated with baking from our community to our local stations. While we very much appreciate the huge wave of support, we've actually got too much food now that our crews won't be able to get through! So please no more baking, but you can show your support by posting messages to the brigades here.


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Lee Valley Fire Update #7

8/02/2024 at 3:15 PM


Fire and Emergency is making steady progress fighting the fire burning in pine forest at Lee Valley and is aiming to have it fully contained by the end of tomorrow, although it will take longer to fully extinguish.

Until the fire is contained, residents who evacuated their homes yesterday will be able to have managed access to their properties, while continuing to stay in alternative accommodation overnight. This will enable them to take care of stock and carry out other essential tasks.

From tomorrow, Fire and Emergency will set up a community hub where residents can come for information and get support any time of day. The location and opening times will be confirmed today.

Once the fire is contained, Fire and Emergency plans to assist residents return to their homes in a restricted capacity, such as lowered speed limits, escorted and resident-only access while fire operations are still underway.

Incident Controller Steve Trigg and District Manager Grant Hayward met residents at a community meeting this afternoon, sharing information about progress on the fireground and the plan for managed access and full return home.

Helicopter and ground operations are continuing, and the fireground has been more accurately mapped – it covers about 9 hectares of pine forestry.

Steve Trigg said conditions for firefighting have been favourable today, with light winds.

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Lee Valley Fire Update #7

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

8/2/24


Fire and Emergency is making steady progress fighting the fire burning in pine forest at Lee Valley and is aiming to have it fully contained by the end of tomorrow, although it will take longer to fully extinguish.


Until the fire is contained, residents who evacuated their homes yesterday will be able to have managed access to their properties, while continuing to stay in alternative accommodation overnight. This will enable them to take care of stock and carry out other essential tasks.



Latest photo from Fire and Emergency NZ


From tomorrow, Fire and Emergency will set up a community hub where residents can come for information and get support any time of day. The location and opening times will be confirmed today.


Once the fire is contained, Fire and Emergency plans to assist residents return to their homes in a restricted capacity, such as lowered speed limits, escorted and resident-only access while fire operations are still underway.


Incident Controller Steve Trigg and District Manager Grant Hayward met residents at a community meeting this afternoon, sharing information about progress on the fireground and the plan for managed access and full return home.


Helicopter and ground operations are continuing, and the fireground has been more accurately mapped - it covers about 9 hectares of pine forestry.


Steve Trigg said conditions for firefighting have been favourable today, with light winds.

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Lee Valley Fire Update #6

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand


8 February, 2024 


Firefighters, helicopters and two heavy machinery operators are continuing their efforts to bring the Lee Valley fire under control.


The fire is burning in pine forestry on steep terrain. It is not yet considered to be contained, but it has not grown in size today and is still estimated at 5 hectares. There is no reported damage to property, aside from the forest itself.


All roadblocks remain in place and people are asked to stay away so emergency services are not delayed in moving in and out of the area.


There will be a meeting for Lee Valley residents at 1pm today in the Wanderers’ Clubrooms, Lord Rutherford Road to update them on the situation and the milestones that will need to be reached in order for the evacuated households to return home.


In the meantime, roadblocks remain in place and people are asked to stay away from the area so firefighters and vehicles can operate safely. Drones must not be flown anywhere near the fireground.


Fire and Emergency is also asking everyone in the Nelson-Tasman area to be aware of the high fire danger and to avoid any activities that could spark a fire. People in rural areas should also have an evacuation plan in case of wildfire.

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Lee Valley Fire Update #5

8/02/2024 at 7:00 AM


Four crews of firefighters and two heavy machinery operators worked through the night at the Lee Valley fire. Fire and Emergency Incident Controller Steve Trigg says two urban crews were tasked with protecting structures while the two rural crews and the excavator operators were making fire breaks and control lines.

The fire is not yet controlled or contained, but there has been no reported damage to property overnight, aside from the forest itself.

Seven helicopters will be back in the air this morning to resume the aerial attack, while the excavators would continue making firebreaks.

Specialist forestry silviculture / firefighting crews would be on the ground, using thermal imaging equipment to identify hotspots and tackling each one with hand tools and hoses. The command unit is also on site and continuously staffed.

All roadblocks remain in place and people are asked to stay away so emergency services are not delayed in moving in and out of the area.

Steve Trigg has also stressed that private drones must not be flown anywhere near the Lee Valley, to avoid helicopters having to be grounded to avoid the risk of a mid-air collision.

Nelson-Tasman Civil Defence advises that the civil defence centre at the Wanderers’ Clubrooms on Lord Rutherford Drive will reopen at 8am.

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Lee Valley Fire 7 Feb 2024. Photo credit Anne Rimmer.

Lee Valley Fire Update #4 

7/02/2024 at 11:15 PM


Firefighting has paused overnight at Lee Valley, but heavy machinery operators will be working through the night to cut firebreaks.

The fire is not yet contained, but has not increased in size since earlier this evening, when it was estimated to cover 5 hectares of pine forestry in steep terrain. 

Fire and Emergency Incident Controller Steve Trigg says that seven helicopters will resume the aerial attack in the morning.

Specialist forest firefighting crews from local forestry companies will also be working on the flanks of the fire to establish control lines, supported by heavy machinery.

Conditions are expected to be favourable for firefighting tomorrow, with light winds from the south west.

All the residents who were evacuated this afternoon are in other accommodation tonight. Fire and Emergency briefed them on the situation tonight, and will update them again in the morning. A few residents were escorted home by police briefly this evening to collect personal possessions.

Nelson-Tasman Civil Defence advises that the civil defence centre at the Wanderers’ Clubrooms on Lord Rutherford Drive has closed overnight and will reopen at 8am.

This will be the last update on the fire tonight.


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Lee Valley Fire Update #3

7 February 2024

All six helicopters fighting the Lee Valley fire have been grounded because of a drone sighted in the area. A seventh helicopter has also been stood down before it reached the fireground.

Police are actively seeking the drone operator.

Fire and Emergency Incident Controller Steve Trigg said drones were a safety risk to aerial firefighting, as a mid-air collision with a drone could have fatal consequences.

"The drone sighting has completely impacted helicopter operations. Firefighting efforts are on hold until the safety of air operations can be assured," Steve Trigg said.

The fire is burning over about 5 hectares of a pine forestry block and is not yet contained. Firefighters are unable to continue the firefight using ground attack while the helicopters are grounded because the terrain is too steep and dangerous.

Eleven houses on River Terrace between the Lee Valley Bridge over the Wairoa River and Mead Road have been evacuated by Police. Nelson-Tasman Civil Defence has opened a civil defence centre for evacuees at the Wanderers’ Clubrooms on Lord Rutherford Drive. Further information on that support is available by calling 035438400.

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Lee Valley Fire Update #2

7/02/2024 at 6:15 PM


Firefighters from nine brigades are responding to the fire in Lee Valley, supported by aerial attack from helicopters with monsoon buckets.

Eleven houses on River Terrace between the Lee Valley Bridge over the Wairoa River and Mead Road have been evacuated by Police. Nelson-Tasman Civil Defence has opened a civil defence centre for evacuees at the Wanderers’ Clubrooms on Lord Rutherford Drive. Further information on that support is available by calling 035438400.

As at 5.30pm the fire is estimated to have covered about three hectares.

We ask people to stay well away from the area so emergency services are not held up by non-essential traffic. Also those with drones must not fly them in the area – when drones are spotted the helicopters have to be grounded for safety reasons.



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Lee Valley Fire Update #1

7 February 2024

Fire and Emergency is responding to a significant vegetation fire in the Lee Valley, in the Tasman District.

There are three separate areas of fire, spreading uphill into a pine plantation.

Five helicopters are supporting ground crews.

People in the area are urgently asked to avoid non-essential travel, particularly on Paton Rd, as traffic congestion is delaying some fire trucks from reaching the fire.

Police are assisting with evacuating people from local swimming spots. Road closures are in place.

We will provide a further update when more information is available.



"Rising Tide of Vandalism Grips Tasman: A Call for Community Vigilance and Action”

 

Nine ring barked Himalayan Oak at Hoddy Estuary Park  as well as two further trees being cut down. Photo Tasman District Council.


"Tasman District Council Confronts Escalating Vandalism Threat"


Date: 7 February 2024

In a disheartening turn of events, Tasman's pristine green spaces are grappling with a surge in vandalism, as highlighted by the recent targeted destruction of nine Himalayan Oak trees in Hoddy Estuary Park. Planted by the community over 15 years ago, these trees fell victim to deliberate ring-barking, mirroring a wider trend observed across the district.

This incident not only robs Hoddy Estuary Park of its natural beauty but is part of a troubling pattern that extends to other cherished public areas, including Washbourn Gardens, White Gate Reserve, and Wakefield. Tasman's Reserves Staff and contractors, grappling with the aftermath, are now forced to address numerous incidents of theft and vandalism, necessitating a significant investment of time and resources.

Expressing frustration and disappointment, the Tasman District Council emphasises the illegal nature of these actions and the potential for prosecution if culprits are identified. The call to action implores residents to report any damage, urging a collaborative effort to curb these senseless acts that mar the community's enjoyment of its shared spaces.

Smashed bollards at White Gate Reserve. Photo credit Tasman District Council.


In the past few days, additional incidents have been reported, further underscoring the severity of the situation. A soap dispenser and disability aid/handle were stolen from the new toilet in Wakefield (Whitby Green), while the old library in Motueka fell victim to vandalism with two front door windows smashed. These recent acts only strengthen the resolve of the community and the council to address and put an end to this destructive wave. For those with information, contacting the council at 03 543 8400 becomes a crucial step in identifying those responsible and preserving the integrity of Tasman's public spaces.


Press Release from Grant Reburn, Tasman District Council Reserves and Facilities Manager:


Hoddy Estuary Park tree damage underlines growing vandalism issue in Tasman


7 February, 2024

If you feel the need to damage property - take a breath, it's not yours. If you see damaged property – let us know. 

We have recently had nine Himalayan Oak trees in Hoddy Estuary Park ring-barked, which appears to have been carried out with the intention of killing them, as well as two further trees being cut down in a separate area of the reserve.

The Himalayan Oaks are a particularly sad loss, given they were planted by the community back when the park was first opened, and they had been developing into beautiful trees.  

The loss of more than 15 years’ worth of growth affects the overall beauty of the reserve and is disheartening for those who have given their time and energy over this period. 

Unfortunately, this is an example of a wider trend that we are observing across the district, where members of the public are damaging exotic species in our green spaces 

Damage sustained to the toilet facilities at White Gate Reserve. Photo credit Tasman District Council.


In the last two weeks, Reserves Staff and contractors have also had to deal with numerous incidents of theft and vandalism at other spaces – including Washbourn Gardens, White Gate Reserve and Wakefield. 

This wilful damage requires significant investment of time and money for repair or replacement and negatively affects how we manage these spaces. 

These actions are illegal and could result in prosecution by the police if the culprits are identified. 

If the culprits had an issue with the trees or facilities, a conversation with the council would have prevented it reaching this costly and unnecessary stage. 

Instead, this takes up thousands of dollars and many staff and contractor hours that should be spent on projects and items that will enhance, rather than destroying  community  facilities. 

Smashed bollards at White Gate Reserve. Photo credit Tasman District Council.


We are frustrated and extremely disappointed that people have taken it upon themselves to cause damage in various forms - there is nothing accidental or naive about these actions and the actions of a few with obvious issues ruin the opportunity for everyone else to use and enjoy these spaces.

Please contact Tasman District Council on 03 543 8400 to report any damage or provide any information that could help us identify those responsible and reduce the incidence of vandalism taking place.  

Damage sustained to the toilet facilities at White Gate Reserve. Photo credit Tasman District Council.


Tasman District Council Communications.


Pigeon Post News, Richmond.


NZTA/Waka Kotahi Traffic Bulletin: Whakatu Drive


 Night closures planned for State Highway 6, Whakatu Drive, Nelson

7 February Nelson

Essential maintenance will see State Highway 6, Whakatu Drive, subject to night closures this month.


The highway will be closed between the Annesbrook Roundabout and Link Road/Raeward Roundabout for up to ten nights between 11 - 23 February.


A local road detour via Main Road Stoke will be available for all vehicles.


Contractors will conduct repairs on the road’s surface as well as the highway’s central median barriers. They will also do vegetation and weed control, street light repairs, and other general maintenance.


The maintenance work is part of the New Zealand Transport Agency/Waka Kotahi state highway summer maintenance programme. Regular maintenance on the state highway network is the most effective way of minimising the need for substantial and more expensive repairs.

 

The work has been timed to happen at night when fewer vehicles are on the road to minimise disruption as much as possible. A full closure also allows contractors to finish the work much faster and work in a safer environment with no live traffic lanes.

 

Because SH6 Whakatu Drive is an important link between Nelson and Tasman, road users must factor the work into their travel plans as the detours will mean slightly longer travel times.”

 

Detour Routes:

·         People travelling to Nelson Airport or businesses on Quarantine Road will detour via Parkers Road and Pascoe Street.

·         Access from Nelson Airport to the city will be via Quarantine Road, but temporary speed restrictions and traffic management will be in place.

·         The shared path next to the highway will remain open for cyclists and pedestrians in both directions.

·         The local road detour via Main Road Stoke has temporarily been approved by Nelson City and Tasman District councils for use by heavy vehicles.

·         This detour is expected to add up to 10 minutes to travel times.

 

Works Schedule:

  • 11 - 23 February, 8:30 pm to 5:30 am - excluding Friday, 16 and Saturday, 17 February.
  • State Highway 6, Whakatu Drive, will be closed in both directions, between the Annesbrook Roundabout and Link Road/Raeward Roundabout.
  • Following the completion of the night closures, contractors will continue side barrier improvement work on each side of the Nayland Road and Songer Street overbridges.
  • There will be other areas of work on our state highways across the top of the South during February. Please plan ahead when travelling.



New Zealand Transport Agency/Waka Kotahi Communications.


Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

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