A large bush fire on Dunedin's western hills has been contained but evacuated families have been told to stay away overnight.
The blaze on Flagstaff Hill, photographed from the air. Photo: Supplied / Fire and Emergency
The fire, which covered 12 hectares, took hold on the popular Pineapple Track in Dunedin's Flagstaff area shortly before 1pm this afternoon.
A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said a crew of four ground staff will remain overnight to dampen down hot spots.
This afternoon eight helicopters used monsoon buckets to fight the blaze as tankers and trucks struggle to reach the fire on the ground.
A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said ground crews and choppers have stopped for the night and will return at first light tomorrow.
Meanwhile, the Dunedin City Council said an evacuation centre, which had been set up earlier, has now been closed.
About five evacuated families visited the centre, but they have since made other arrangements, the council said.
The fire as seen in the Dunedin suburb of Brockville, up to 6km from Flagstaff Hill. Photo: RNZ / Anna Chinn
Police earlier advised residents on Rudd Road and those near Redwood mountain bike track to evacuate.
Cordons were erected near Redwood car park and Wakari Rd.
All walking tracks in the Flagstaff area have now been closed, as have several roads.
Heavy winds were gusting in the area during the afternoon and smoke blanketed the city's western hill suburbs.
It is unclear how the fire started.