Department of Conservation fire response co-ordinator Paul Hondelink said yesterday the department's rural fire team was leading the investigation but police and the New Zealand Fire Service were also investigating.
The cause was ''unknown at this stage'', Mr Hondelink said.
The fire burnt about 2ha of vegetation alongside Gunn Rd but wind-blown embers started a fire in Bernard Rd, about 150m away, which caused structural damage to a house.
The department appreciated the quick response of fire service units from Hawea, Luggate and Wanaka and ''numerous members of the public, the police and contractors who assisted'', Mr Hondelink said. Residents and passers-by fought fires that began in properties across Gunn Rd from the conservation area.
Householders with damage to their properties are being asked by Doc to contact their insurance companies first. Householders with property damage not covered by insurance should contact the Doc Wanaka area office, Mr Hondelink said.
