Traffic diverted around Central Otago town after scrub fire

A large scrub fire in Cromwell has forced all traffic to be diverted around the Central Otago town.

The blaze started near the intersection of State Highway 6 and SH8B shortly after 2pm on Friday.

Fire and Emergency shift manager Simon Lyford said eight crews were called and were battling a large grass fire that was on both sides of the road.

Lyford said the fire covered two hectares and firefighters at the scene had asked for three helicopters to be on standby.

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“It is extremely dry down there,” Lyford said.

Shortly after 3pm the fire had been contained and all further appliances and helicopters had been stood down, Lyford said.

The road remained closed while crews dampen down areas that had been burned.

A police spokesperson said traffic is being diverted around the Cromwell township, and urged people to avoid the area if possible.

Hato Hone St John received a call at 2.14pm about the and a spokesperson said an ambulance and operations manager were sent to the scene.