Police and NZDF are continuing with community reassurance and security patrols this evening and overnight in the evacuated areas.
Evacuations will shortly be completed for the evening, pending any changes in fire activity.
SH 6 through Wakefield is closed to all traffic.
Police ask residents to please respect all evacuated areas and cordons, and we reiterate that nobody should be travelling in or around evacuated areas who does not have a specific purpose in the area.
Anyone who is concerned for their immediate safety, or sees any offence being committed, is asked to call 111.
For further updates, please check the Civil Defence website
ENDS