(File photo) Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
A large fire threatening homes in north Canterbury has been contained, but some homes remain under threat and evacuation centres are operating for those affected.
The blaze broke out near the Waipara River at Glasnevin, police said, and both north and south-bound lanes of State Highway 1 were closed with no detour in place.
Motorists were being told to avoid the area, with the road still shut late on Tuesday night.
Residents were warned to stay indoors and keep all windows closed due to the smoke.
Two helicopters and about 60 firefighters from seven fire brigades were at the vegetation fire late on Tuesday evening, Fire and Emergency (FENZ) said.
The flames had spread to both sides of the highway and burned through about five hectares of vegetation.
By 8:45pm on Tuesday FENZ said the fire had been contained, but while the blaze was not expected to spread further, a number of buildings still remained under threat.
Two homes had been evacuated and heavy machinery was on its way to assist with continuing firefighting efforts.
Te Whatu Ora, the National Public Health Service, said the air quality in the area was a concern, particularly for people with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women, young children, and the elderly.
Its medical officer Dr Cheryl Brunton said windows and doors should be closed and people should avoid going outside until the smoke had completely cleared.
State Highway 1 was closed between Watties Road and the Waipara River Bridge, Waka Kotahi said. No detour was available, and they asked people travelling that way to delay their journey.
Two evacuation centres were open, Hurunui District Council said, one at Waipara Hall for those on the north side of the river, and one at the Tin Shed at Amberley Domain for those south of the river.