Fear lives could be lost as serial arsonist hits Northland town of Ahipara
Jade Weaver/Supplied Huge plumes of smoke went into the air during the December 29 fire. But Ross said the fire, which was started in two places on Gumfields Reserve, could have destroyed many houses, had it not been for a fortuitous wind change. “It was heading towards the housing development on Foreshore Rd and Tasman Heights, and that night there was a 15-degree wind shift that saved the houses.” He fears people might be so lucky if there were to be a repeat. “It’s a real issue. When a dwelling goes up, nearby dwellings are put at risk and firefighters are put at risk.
Source: stuff.co.nz