Firefighters continue to battle two large fires in Canterbury

Firefighting efforts on the Port Hills continue as crews brace for a high fire day across Canterbury with hot and windy conditions proposing a threat to any potential new fires.

Fire and Emergency (FENZ) said the focus of crews is on eliminating hotspots and strengthening the containment lines.

Meanwhile, a large vegetation fire ignited in Waikari Valley, north of Christchurch, on Sunday night forcing evacuations of two nearby streets. 

Five helicopters and roughly 50 firefighters continue to tackle the flames on Monday and while the fire has largely burned out, officials say it remains a risk due to high winds.

What you need to know

  • There is a high fire danger in Canterbury today
  • Firefighters are tackling a blaze in Waikari Valley. Residents of two streets remain evacuated
  • Firefighting efforts on the Port Hills continue today with a focus on eliminating hot spots and strengthening containment lines
  • Christchurch City and Selwyn District remain in a state of emergency.