A large scrub fire near Flock Hill has forced the closure of State Highway 73 between Springfield and Arthur’s Pass, with authorities advising travellers to use the Lewis Pass route (SH7) via Waipara and Reefton.
The fire, which has been burning throughout the morning, is being managed by Canterbury Fire and Emergency New Zealand.
The New Zealand Transport Agency said the alternative route could add up to an hour to travel times, depending on the specific destination on the West Coast.
The highway closure may remain in place overnight if conditions are deemed unsafe.
NZTA is monitoring the situation closely, with traffic management in place.
