Major scrub fire near Aoraki/Mt Cook burns for second day
A large blaze burning through wilding pines near the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park has spread significantly overnight.
The fire has been burning since about 11.25am on Sunday after flaring up on a Twizel riverbed and spreading to a large forest on Mt Cook Rd (State Highway 80).
It grew to 2500 hectares and had a 23 kilometre perimeter by Sunday night but on Monday, there was "significant spread" overnight and it was now covering 3100 hectares.
There are 17 helicopters and two fixed-wing aircraft battling the fire, with the first helicopters equipped with monsoon buckets going up at first light.
Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
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64.3% Yes
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33.2% No
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2.5% Other - I'll share below
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