Ward fire draws crews as winds fuel blazes

Fire crews have been called to a vegetation fire at Ward as strong winds drive multiple blazes across Canterbury and Hurunui.

Trees were reported on fire at Ward about 5pm, with eight crews on site and more on the way, as Fire and Emergency New Zealand continues to respond to outbreaks stretching south into Canterbury.

Most of the fires are vegetation blazes, although one at Selwyn Road near Rolleston involved a farm shed as well as adjoining trees. That fire was reported at 3.42pm, with 10 crews still working there after 16 were deployed at the height of the response.

By nightfall, rain had begun to bring some relief, but at 5.30pm crews were still working on eight fires. Aircraft were all stood down by nightfall.

Assistant district commander Brian Keown says that while the rain and forecast lower temperatures will help, Canterbury remains extremely dry for this time of year.

Anyone who has lit an outdoor fire in the last week should check it is completely out. Farmers and lifestyle block owners planning land management burns should refer to www.checkitsalright.nz and be mindful of the weather before lighting any new fires.

The first fire of the day was reported at Eyrewell in Selwyn District at 8.35am. At its peak, 13 crews with fire trucks and tankers, supported by a helicopter, were at the scene.

Other fires included:

• A vegetation fire at Gebbies Valley near Christchurch, reported just before 12.30pm as a hedge fire. Sixteen crews responded, with six remaining at the scene
• A forestry fire at Hawarden in Hurunui District, reported just before 2.20pm. Eighteen crews, supported by a helicopter, were involved at the peak, with 12 still on site
• An escaped burn-off at Mt Culverden, reported just before 2.40pm. Six crews remain, with eight responding at the height
• A hedge fire at Emu Plain in Hurunui District, reported just after 3pm. Six crews were dispatched, with three still working
• A tree fire on Inland Kaikōura Road in Hurunui District, reported about 4.10pm. Two crews attended
• A fire that escaped from a burn pile at Waipara, reported just after 4.20pm. Seven crews attended, with five still on site