Mt Cook road closed due to fast-spreading scrub fire

Multiple resources from Twizel, Omarama, Lake Tekapo, Burkes Pass and Otematata are on route.
Multiple resources from Twizel, Omarama, Lake Tekapo, Burkes Pass and Otematata are on route. Photo credit: Getty

A fast-spreading scrub fire two kilometres in size has caused Mount Cook road to close.

Fire and Emergency were alerted to the blaze at 11:25am on Sunday.

The fire originated in a grassy area but has spread to a forestry plantation due to strong winds.

Police are working with Fire and Emergency to evacuate properties on State Highway 80.

Four helicopters, multiple fire crews and a command unit from Timaru are on route.