Waiouru fire transitions into patrol phase following outstanding team effort

After many days of intensive firefighting in the Waiouru Military Training Area, operations are transitioning into a mop-up, patrol, and recovery phase following a major multi-agency effort.

05 November, 2026

The scrubland fire, which started on 25 October during live-fire training, initially appeared extinguished before reigniting the following morning.

While active spread of the fire has been managed, there is still more work to do with dedicated crews monitoring the perimeter, targeting hotspots, and managing ongoing risks.

NZDF Fire Master and Operations Commander, Staff Sergeant Matthew Anker, commended the multi-agency response to date:

"The efforts of everyone involved have been outstanding. Crews faced extremely demanding conditions with strong winds and difficult terrain, making the response particularly challenging.

"With air support, heavy machinery, drones, and specialist vehicles, the combined crews from the NZDF, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and the Department of Conservation have successfully protected key infrastructure, culturally significant sites, and native bush.

“A huge thank you to everyone involved for their professionalism, determination, and teamwork throughout this challenging response."

While the main firefighting effort has shifted, crews will remain on site over the coming days to maintain patrols of the area and ensure it remains secure.