Attributable to Inspector Zane Hooper, Acting Tasman District Commander:
Police has a simple message for people in Wai-iti, south of Wakefield, this evening – be prepared to evacuate.
We will come knocking at your door if the situation demands that you leave. This is entirely dependent on the fire and conditions, which are being constantly monitored.
If you need to leave, you will need to leave quickly.
Depending on the conditions, this could be either south or north. NZDF continue to manage staged convoys along SH 6.
Police and NZDF will continue to facilitate any evacuations that may occur.
The number of properties in the prepare-to-evacuate zone is estimated at 170 houses, affecting approximately 450 people.
This is in addition to approximately 1000 properties that have been evacuated so far across the district.
If you choose to self-evacuate, please register your details with Civil Defence by calling the Tasman District Council on 03 543 8400, or visit the Civil Defence Centre at Saxton Stadium.
This is so you can be contacted with information relevant to your area.
Police and our NZDF and USAR colleagues will continue to patrol evacuated areas, for security and community reassurance.
Please refer to the Civil Defence website for an up-to-date map of the areas in which people should prepare to evacuate, and the latest information and advice.
ENDS