It's hoped cooler temperatures and rain forecast for the Mackenzie District today will help crews fighting the Lake Ōhau blaze in Mackenzie District.
Firefighters stayed overnight to monitor the mostly contained fire that's burnt through almost 6000 hectares since Sunday morning.
Drones with infrared cameras were also used to map hot spots and find critical areas to focus on today.
The first of the 100-odd fire fighters are working the blaze recounted driving towards the inferno to help evacuate the village.
Residents whose properties were damaged were unable to return yesterday to collect essential items.
Up to 50 structures including houses were flattened in the blaze. No one was injured or died.
Most residents found nothing left at all while others were luckier.
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