Waiouru military area fire

The story so far

Early reports said live fire training sparked the fire, while a later report said gunshots during military training were the reported cause.^{26, 28 Oct}

Latest

Containment lines were strengthened on Sunday as weather conditions improved, and Fire and Emergency NZ was preparing to hand over control of the blaze, which had burnt more than 3,700 hectares.^{1 Nov}

What's next

Fire and Emergency NZ is preparing to hand over control of the scrub fire.^{1 Nov}

Key moments

1. 26 OctVegetation fire sparked by live fire training burns about 230 hectares; smoke crosses Desert Road.
2. 28 OctWind and rain hamper firefighters; over 90 personnel work to secure the perimeter.
3. 28 OctFire reportedly sparked by gunshots during military training.
4. 1 NovContainment lines strengthened as weather improves; handover of control being prepared.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.