Residents evacuated in Moutere Hill Fire can return
Fire and Emergency has determined that it is safe for the majority of residents evacuated this afternoon following the fire in Upper Moutere to return home.
All residents evacuated from Redwood Valley Rd and associated side roads can return to their properties immediately.
The return is based on the provision that they be ready to evacuate again at short notice.
However it has been recommended that residents at five properties on the Moutere Highway not return tonight as a precautionary measure.
Emergency services have communicated directly with these residents.
Cordons remain in place at the intersections of Maisey Rd and Moutere Highway, and Old Coach Rd and Moutere Highway.
Fire crews will be patrolling the Redwood Valley and Moutere Highway area overnight to monitor conditions.
Vegetation fire crews will also be working on the fire ground during the night.