A large scrub has closed a major South Island pass.
Fire crews were alerted to the fire on Lewis Pass near Hanmer Springs, Canterbury at around 3:10pm on Tuesday.
A Fire and Emergency spokesperson told Newshub the fire was now under control and fire-fighters were dampening down flare-ups.
The New Zealand Transport Agency plans to re-open the road before 7pm.
Drivers already on the road should consider using State Highway 1, through Kaikoura, for travel to Picton, Blenheim and Nelson.
Those already on State Highway 7, should consider taking Route 70, through to Kaikoura, and continuing their journey via State Highway 1.
Those wishing to travel to the West Coast, should use State Highway 73, via Arthur's Pass.
Newshub.
