A massive wildfire continues to burn through New Zealand’s Tongariro National Park, expanding to between 1,800 and 2,500 hectares since it broke out on Saturday afternoon.

According to Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ), the blaze remains uncontrolled, fueled by dry conditions and rugged terrain. Although there are no reports of casualties or structural damage, authorities have carried out precautionary evacuations for hikers, park staff, and people staying in nearby facilities.

Assistant Commander Craig Gold said air operations are the main focus of the firefighting efforts. “Given the difficult terrain and the fire’s behaviour, air attack is more effective at this stage,” he said.

A total of five fixed-wing aircraft and twelve helicopters are currently being used to battle the flames, supported by four ground teams and additional firefighting crews. Overnight operations were suspended due to dangerous conditions, and aircraft were stood down at nightfall on Saturday.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand’s most popular hiking routes, has been closed, along with a section of State Highway 47 leading to the national park. A no-fly zone has also been declared to keep the airspace clear for firefighting aircraft.

Authorities say the fire has already destroyed large areas of native vegetation and poses a serious risk to wildlife and fragile alpine ecosystems. Established in 1887, Tongariro National Park covers 80,000 hectares and is New Zealand’s first national park. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for both its natural beauty and its cultural importance to the Māori people.

Fire officials warn that weather conditions remain volatile and that shifting winds could further complicate containment efforts. A specialist wildfire investigator has been deployed to determine the cause of the blaze.

Residents in nearby villages, including Whakapapa, have been placed on alert as smoke continues to spread across the central North Island.

Authorities said it may take several days before the fire is fully brought under control, depending on weather changes and firefighting progress. (ILKHA)