Large fire burns hillside near Queenstown, Walter Peak Station evacuated

A fire is spreading rapidly across a hillside beside Lake Wakatipu near Queenstown, sending thick clouds of smoke across the water.

Photos show flames along the lower slopes and a large plume of smoke obscuring much of the mountainside.

A Fire and Emergency NZ spokesperson said helicopters with monsoon buckets were at work to protect the Walter Peak homestead while other aircraft were on their way.

Firefighters from Frankton and Glenorchy are being airlifted onto the fireground while crews from Mossburn are travelling by road.

A large plume of smoke obscures the slopes across Lake Wakatipu as a fire burns near Queenstown. Photo / Supplied

RealNZ, owners and oeprators of Walter Peak station, said the area was south of the Walter Peak Homestead.

“Following a controlled scrub burn last week, the site has reignited this afternoon,” a spokesperson said.

The lakeside fire is near the Walter Peak farm and homestead. Photo / Supplied

They said the Homestead and nearby treeline were not impacted at this stage.

“As a precaution, guests, contractors and staff have been evacuated to the amphitheatre while the burn area is dampened down. Our 1pm and 3pm Walter Peak experiences have been cancelled.”

FENZ Assistant District Commander Nic McQuillan said initial efforts are focused on protecting the homestead.

“The fire is also spreading rapidly up the steep slopes of Mount Nicholas. Smoke from the fire is being blown across the lake towards Jacks Point and Hanleys Farm, and is likely to move towards Queenstown,” he said.

“Residents in areas affected by the smoke should keep doors and windows closed to avoid exposure.”

More to come...