Shaymus Watson
(18:50) Fire crews continue to battle a large fire in Christchurch’s Port Hills.
The vegetation fire was reported in the area of Worsleys Road in Cracroft at 2.15pm.
Police have cordoned off Worsleys Road at the intersection with McVicar Drive.
Summit Road is closed between Dyers Pass Road and Gebbies Pass Road.
Shaymus Watson
12 helicopters, 25 trucks and tankers, and more than 135 firefighters are battling the blaze.
Thousands of homes lost power as a result of the fire but it has since been restored.
Helene Kirpensteijn
Nigel Collings
Evacuations are underway and two evacuation centres have been set up.
Shaymus Watson
Nigel Collings
Canterbury Fire and Emergency NZ commander Dave Stackhouse said the fire is not contained.
Helene Kirpensteijn
Te Whatu Ora has issued a public health warning for smoke from the fire – Those concerned about their health can call Healthline on 0800 611 116.
Nigel Collings
At least six houses are under threat from the flames.
