15 fire-fighters and 5 helicopters continue to battle the fire at Closeburn which started close to midnight last night.

Earlier in the day strong winds gusting up to 60 knots made it impossible for helicopters to dump water on the blaze along the western ridgeline front of the fire, high above Closeburn.  Recent weather changes bringing rain and weakening winds have allowed aircraft to control the fire along this flank meaning fire-fighting rangers are now more optimistic the fire can be completely contained.

DOC's Fire Operations Manager, Richard Kennett has advised that 3 fire-fighting ground crews have been deployed along the eastern flank of the fire, dousing remaining hotspots in the areas closest to housing and the Glenorchy road.

"It's important to get all these hotspot areas completely soaked and out" says Richard. "The risk of flare-ups from these sites can then be eliminated and hopefully we won't get any re-ignition within the fire ground." he said.

The change in weather has been a blessing for fire-fighters and helicopter pilots. The rain is dampening down the fire ground and the surrounding areas - which still contain large volumes of fire fuel.

Fire-fighters are rapt that the rain has arrived, and with it, weakening wind which has allowed helicopters to attack the remaining fire front on the western flank.

"It's a great relief to get this fire front contained" Richard said.

Fire investigators are onsite trying to determine the start point and cause of the fire.  Its been a bad night for fires affecting public conservation areas - a second fire at the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement last night has destroyed one of the restored historic buildings at this popular tourist site.

By: Tamah