Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
Fire crews in North Canterbury who put out a major house fire last night had to return to the scene this morning after the blaze flared up again in a neighbouring property.
Fire and Emergency group manager Dave Berry said 11 firetrucks responded to the first blaze at The Pines Beach, Waimakariri shortly before 9pm last night.
The fire damaged several buildings across three properties, with one house completely destroyed and significant damage to a second home.
Berry said strong winds hampered their efforts, but surrounding buildings were saved.
However, at 5.30am, four fire trucks from Woodend and Kaipoi were called back to the second property, which was again alight.
An investigation team is on site to determine the cause.