LA wildfires: NZ consul-general evacuated, Football Fern grieves

New Zealand's consul-general in Los Angeles has been evacuated alongside her family as fierce wildfires burn across the region.

At least five people have been killed and more than 1000 structures have been destroyed by the fire which has prompted the evacuation of more than 70,000 people. There are 18 New Zealanders registered as being in LA.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was monitoring the fires in Los Angeles "closely and with concern".

Consul-General Katja Ackerley's official residence was in an evacuation zone and her and her family had been evacuated safely, a spokesperson said. All consulate staff were safe and accounted for.

"While the New Zealand Consulate’s physical office is closed on advice from local authorities, the Consulate remains operational with staff working remotely.

"New Zealanders who require consular assistance can contact the New Zealand Consulate-General in Los Angeles on +1 310 566 6555 or at [email protected] or for emergencies after-hours on +64 99 20 20 20."

The ministry was unaware of any fatalities or injuries to New Zealanders.

"New Zealanders in the affected area, or areas potentially affected by the fires, should follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders. We also recommend that they stay informed of developments by monitoring local media.

"We encourage all New Zealanders in Los Angeles to register their travel on SafeTravel and pass this message on to any New Zealanders who may not be registered with us."

Fire and Emergency New Zealand said its "thoughts are with the firefighters and communities of Los Angeles as they face the devastation of multiple wildfires that continue to burn across the county".

"As tens of thousands of people have been ordered to evacuate, it’s a crucial reminder for all of us to reflect on our own wildfire escape plans."

Football Fern Ali Riley, who lives in Los Angeles, posted a video on social media and said her "entire neighbourhood is gone".

"We are all safe. Holding on to that with my whole heart while we figure out what to do next," she said in an Instagram story.

It was followed by a photo showing rows of houses which had been reduced to rubble — and an arrow pointing to what was once her home.

"I keep looking at this to make myself understand that it is real," she wrote.

"I was there Monday night, eating dinner. Hanging with Mom and Dad. Watched the sunset. And now it's gone forever."

Riley played for Angel City FC in the US women's professional league.

Major sports events have been suspended due to the fires. As of Wednesday afternoon, at least 13 local high schools and school districts have also cancelled sporting events.

A New Zealander currently in LA told 1News embers from the wildfires were being blown down the coast to a beach 30 kilometres away.

Jaime Shadbolt said soot was falling on the beach and footpath along Redondo Beach.

"It is almost hard to breathe because of how thick the smoke is."