A fire on the Pukerua Bay side of the Paekakariki Hill has closed State Highway 1 in both directions. A witness said five fire and emergency engines were in attendance. HANNAH CALVER
The scrub fire on the hill above State Highway 1 north of Wellington has been put out.
The fire on Monday night had closed the road between Pukerua Bay and Paekākāriki.
The closure remained in place, but it was understood the road would reopen around 10:30pm.
Fire and emergency shift manager Murray Dunbar said crews were still “dampening down” the fire, but it was extinguished.
Dampening down was a process to ensure the fire could not reignite.
A spokesperson said Fire and Emergency were called at 8:02pm.
Twelve fire trucks attended the scene, and were joined by police at 8:06pm.
Traffic was diverted and the road was closed by NZTA.
Road users were told to take alternative routes such as Paekākāriki Hill Road, although this was not suitable for heavy vehicles.
Metlink Wellington said all trains on the Kāpiti line were suspended between Porirua and Waikanae.
The 7:44pm train service from Wellington to Waikanae was terminated at Plimmerton and passengers were advised to find alternative transport.
It was not yet clear when the train line would reopen, and it was understood two freight trains were currently waiting for clearance.
A scrub fire has closed State Highway 1 north of Pukerua Bay, and trains have been cancelled. NZTA
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