Pegasus Beach fire
130 residents have been evacuated overnight from Woodend Beach Holiday Park due to a large bush fire in the area.
The fire started at Pegasus Beach on Wednesday 2 November and due to the high winds it swiftly headed south towards Christchurch.
The Woodend Holiday Park is currently in the direct path of the fire and therefore residents were evacuated. As of this morning, 200 hectares of land has now been damaged in the blaze.
Twelve trucks and 50 firefighters remain on the scene and were doing everything they could overnight to slow the fire’s progress, including using heavy machinery to create firebreaks. There had been no known loss of homes or other property however the fire is still active as of 9am this morning and the smoke can be detected as far as the Port Hills.
What you need to know:
- The fire is parallel to the beach from Pegasus Beach towards Woodend Beach and public should avoid this area
- Waimakariri Civil Defence and Police are assisting residents and have set up a hub for evacuees at Woodend Community Centre
- There will be an update for residents at the community centre at 10am
Further updates will be in the comments below this post.
Gang presence this weekend
International members of the Mongols MC are expected in Canterbury for an event marking five years since the gang established itself in New Zealand.
What you need to know:
-The gang has three chapters in the South Island. Wainoni-based Ōtautahi East, Ashburton-based Mid-South and SH1, Burnham.
- Police say they will have ‘considerable resource’ in the region during the event from November 7-10.
- Police in Canterbury have planned a major operation around the event - thought to coincide with a national meeting - from November 7 to 10, and have drafted in staff from two other districts to help.
- Mongols members from across the country are expected to meet at the gang’s original South Island headquarters - a fortified property on SH1, Burnham, on the outskirts of Christchurch.
- Canterbury district commander Superintendent Tony Hill says:
“We’re prepared for multiple contingencies. We will be monitoring their behaviour very closely over the period, if they’re not behaving appropriately then we will be taking appropriate action quite swiftly.”
Riddle Me That: Ready to Test Your Wits?
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if he tells the truth, he'll be beheaded.
What can he say to save himself?
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Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.
How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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28.8% With a city-wide public fireworks display
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19.6% Small fireworks displays in each community
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7.7% Keep it as is
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32.9% We shouldn't celebrate it!
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10.5% Anything but fireworks
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0.4% Other - I'll share below