This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia, which closed in 2021.

Christchurch Homes Destroyed By Bush Fires, Helicopter Pilot Dead

A state of emergency has been declared in Christchurch and Selwyn.
The fires have already claimed the life of one man. At least eleven homes have now been destroyed.
Fairfax Media
The fires have already claimed the life of one man. At least eleven homes have now been destroyed.

One person is dead, 11 houses destroyed and more than 400 homes in Christchurch have been evacuated as bush fires rip through the area.

The New Zealand military has been called in to assist firefighters in Christchurch's Port Hills district. Police estimate at least 11 homes have been lost to the flames with hundreds of people fleeing for their lives. People have been advised to stay away from the Port Hills district until further notice.

A line of fire burns across Port Hills, south of Christchurch
Fairfax media
A line of fire burns across Port Hills, south of Christchurch

A helicopter pilot, Steven Askin, was killed when his helicopter crashed while helping to battle the blaze. Police have urged people to be ready to leave their homes at short notice.

Evacuations have taken place from Worsley Road, Cracroft, Hoon Hay Valley Road and those living in the Westmorland area have been moved to welfare centres.

Helicopters fill buckets from Lyttelton Harbour
Fairfax Media
Helicopters fill buckets from Lyttelton Harbour

Firefighters believe the first fire was caused by an electrical problem, beginning on Monday, along Early Valley Rd in Lansdowne.

By nightfall, fire crews were battling a second blaze on Marley's Hill, south of the city. It's not known how that fire started but authorities suspect it started in a car park.

More than 120 firefighters and their support crew, as well as 15 helicopters and two other aircraft, have been battling to control the fires since Monday night.

A police cordon at the suburb Westmorland, in Port Hills.
Fairfax Media
A police cordon at the suburb Westmorland, in Port Hills.

Fire and smoke also cut power to more than 89,000 homes. Christchurch has had more than its fair share of bad luck, having been the victim of two recent earthquakes. One Christchurch resident who lost his home in the 2011 quake has had the dreadful experience of now having to see his new home burn down.

Close
This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia. Certain site features have been disabled. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.