BUSH FIRE IN HUATOKI

Taranaki Daily News, 10 March 1932, Page 11

BUSH FIRE IN HUATOKI

SUCCESSFUL FLIGHT WITH FLAMES SETTLERS’ AND FIREMEN’S WORK. Not until 7 o’clock yesterday morning was it considered that a bush fire that had burnt all night in the Huatoki Valley was safely quelled. Sweepino- over an area of 40 acres, the flames destroyed a plantation on Mr. Cromp-ton-Smith’s property and damaged bush belonging to Mr. F. Shaw. It was only after strenuous efforts by 18 settlers, assisted by members of the New Plymouth Fire Brigade, that the fire was subdued. The scenic reserve was threatened. The trouble originated from burning off operations conducted by settlers on. the banks of the Huatoki River, abpve the scenic reserve. It was when the southerly wind increased in force that sparks were carried into a tree. This caught alight, but as the danger was not recognised the tree was apparently neglected. More sparks were blown into gorse and fern, but it was not until about midday that the possibility of a dangerous situation developing became apparent. It was decided to summon settlers in the locality and to communicate with the New Plymouth Fire Brigade. In the meantime the flames had spread over a wide area and were quickly spreading along the valley towards the bush in the scenic reserve. Settlers and firemen combined to fight the flames with all kinds of implements. It was necessary to climb some of the trees to cut burning limbs. For some hours the fire raged fiercely and those engaged in checking it had an anxious and arduous time. It was not until darkness was approaching that any number of the firefighters lelt that they could safely return to their homes. Some were left

on duty all night to guard against a fresh outbreak. Had it not Been for the united efforts of settlers and firemen it is considered the results of the fire would have not only been very much more extensive but also far more disastrous.