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December 24, 2025
Fernhill Fire Update: Homes Lost, Evacuations & Ongoing Response
Waatea Team
Posted On December 24, 2025
A major vegetation fire near Fernhill on the outskirts of Hastings in Hawke’s Bay has caused widespread disruption, destroyed structures and forced evacuations as emergency services continue to battle the blaze in very challenging, windy conditions.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand reports that the blaze, which began on Tuesday afternoon, has spread rapidly across rough terrain between the Farmhouse Lodge community and the Ngaruroro River bridge on State Highway 50. High winds – with gusts up to 90 km/h – have made aerial support impossible and complicated firefighting efforts on the ground.
Assistant Commander Jason Hill says crews from both urban and rural brigades – around 18 fire crews in total – are on the scene working into the night to contain the fire, which covers several hectares. While firefighters have brought parts of the blaze under control, it is not yet fully contained.
One dwelling has been destroyed and another damaged, and multiple non‑residential structures have also been lost.
Residents living near the Farmhouse Lodge and surrounding areas were evacuated as a precaution, and Hawke’s Bay Civil Defence has been supporting those displaced by the fire. All evacuees have since been accounted for by emergency services.
A section of State Highway 50 remains closed between Taihape Road and Ōmahu Road due to heavy smoke and limited visibility, and motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays or plan alternative routes.
St John Ambulance crews were on standby, attending to at least one person taken to hospital in serious condition, with smoke and fire exposure being the primary concerns reported by authorities.
The combination of dry conditions, strong winds and elevated fire danger is a stark reminder to communities throughout Hawke’s Bay and the wider Motu to adhere strictly to fire bans and safety warnings, especially during this period of heightened risk.
Emergency services continue to work through the night and into the next day to bring the blaze fully under control and ensure the safety of local residents and properties.
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