A fire at Whangārei Hospital carpark, likely from a hot exhaust, damaged 28 vehicles but caused no injuries.

Multiple fires are burning across New Zealand, including a large hedge fire near Kaikōura and a significant blaze in the Whangārei Hospital carpark that damaged at least 28 vehicles. The hospital fire, which started around 2 p.m. on October 21, 2025, was likely caused by a hot exhaust pipe igniting dry grass, with CCTV supporting the theory. Strong winds helped the fire spread rapidly, but it remained away from clinical areas, and no injuries were reported. Fire and Emergency NZ is urging the public to delay all outdoor fires due to dangerous conditions from strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation, with 98% of wildfires in New Zealand attributed to human activity. Authorities are advising people to fully extinguish any existing fires and remain vigilant, especially along the east coasts of both islands.