1 Jan 2010

Fire destroys 1 house, threatens 5 more, in Roxburgh

10:48 pm on 1 January 2010

A large bushfire in the central Otago town of Roxburgh has burned down one house and is threatening at least five others.

Homes on Branxholm Street have been evacuated as high winds create high flames in broom and grass on the hills known as Old Man's Range at the back of the town.

The Fire Service says the blaze was reported at about 8pm on Friday.

It has at least three helicopters operating with monsoon buckets.

At least three pump trucks are also on standby to protect the threatened houses.

Roxburgh residents say the whole of the hillside behind Branxholm Street is glowing red in the strong winds.