Fire contained in Christchurch; another fire starts
Fire near Christchurch Credit:
3NEWS
LATEST: A large fire in West Melton near Christchurch has been contained.
Eight appliances were sent to the scene and a big plume of smoke was seen from surrounding areas.
Three helicopters with monsoon buckets were also attending the blaze.
Fire Service Spokesperson Ian Lynn says the fire is now contained, but gale force winds are predicted for the region this afternoon.
The blaze burnt around 100 hectares of land and firefighters are now dampening hot spots.
JUST IN BREAKING NEWS: Another fire has started near Christchurch Airport causing 'devistation' more soon...