Photo: Fire and Emergency

Fire and Emergency teams are still managing a blaze near Tinwald, Ashburton.

The fire was first reported to emergency services shortly before 5 PM.

It has affected roughly 2 hectares of crop, an extensive stretch of hedge, and approximately 650 hay bales.

The fire’s perimeter has been secured, and with assistance from contractors, efforts to dismantle the affected hay shed are underway.

A spokesman said the operation is anticipated to extend over a period, so new teams or assistance from other fire brigades will be rostered on.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.