Strong winds across Canterbury have fanned two vegetation fires in the last two hours.
The largest, covering 30 hectares near Southbridge, has claimed a shed, and is still not contained. Seven fire trucks and two helicopters are fighting the fire.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand services said they were called to the scene around 3.06pm.
Another large blaze, covering 10 hectares in a valley near Springfield, has seen nine fire trucks and two helicopters respond. It’s almost under control.
Fire and Emergency is asking people to check previous burn offs or bonfires to make sure they don’t reignite and add to what is already a busy afternoon for firefighters in the area.