Helicopters fighting the Port Hills fire have departed the scene, but 23 crews of firefighters will work through the night.
One home has been destroyed in the blaze, which has burned through 650 hectares.
Fire and Emergency Incident Controller Stephen Butler says crews will carry on protecting homes and will also be working to strengthen the containment lines.
He says a shift in the wind is forecast overnight, so residents may notice more smoke, possibly in areas that have not been affected today.
Some residents have been allowed to move back home today but Butler says they know they may need to leave again at short notice if the situation changes.
Others living in the area have been allowed back for short periods to check on animals and for other essential tasks.
See how Thursday unfolded with RNZ's blog: