An Ode

A photographic ode to the helicopter pilots, operating from dawn 'til dusk over the Port Hills Fires.

The fight to control the fire is in its third day, and the fire has not become larger today.  There are 95 Fire and Emergency staff on site, alongside 22 trucks and tankers, 12 helicopters,  two fixed wing aircraft and five diggers.  

Most evacuated people are back in their homes.  

In extras, some photos of helicopters accessing water from ponds in Halswell Quarry.  There are sometimes two helicopters at a time above the ponds.  The pilots' timing is perfect.  Some fly very low on approach (see first extra).