Major Gisborne fire under control

RORY MCLOUGHLIN

SCRUB FIRE: More than 40 firefighters and 10 firetrucks were called to the fire near Awapuni Rd about 5:30pm today where they battled the blaze.

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Several Gisborne properties were evacuated tonight after a major scrub fire threatened buildings.

The blaze off Awapuni Street in central Gisborne was reported just after 6pm, central fire communications shift manager Dave Meikle told NZPA.

Nearly two hectares of scrub went up in flames resulting in the evacuation of residents from about 100 houses, up to two blocks from the scene.

"It was a substantial fire and a significant number of properties were evacuated," Mr Meikle said.

It took firefighters using 10 appliances and three helicopters two hours to contain the flames.

They were able to protect neighbouring buildings and homes from damage, he said.

Crews were still at the scene dampening down hotspots.

The fire spread quickly in dry, windy conditions, Mr Meikle said.

It was not yet known what caused the blaze.

Residents have since been able to return to their homes, one resident who was evacuated told NZPA.

- NZPA