Fire crews contained a large scrub fire near Hanmer Springs in Canterbury that closed State Highway 7 for several hours.
(File image). Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
Twelve crews fought the fire near Mouse Point on State Highway 7.
The blaze covered 30-50 hectares.
No properties were damaged and the fire is controlled, with rain overnight bringing welcome relief.
Two crew were monitoring the site overnight.
Fire and Emergency spokesperson Andrew Norris said they were called to the fire about 4.20pm on Thursday.
High winds at the time were "really not helping" as crews worked to protect power lines and properties, he said.
Crews from Hanmer, Hanmer Rural, Culverden and Waiau fought the blaze.
Meanwhile, another fire at Motanau in the Hurunui district is being monitored on Friday.
Fire and Emergency says the fire, which started on Thursday afternoon, was controlled just after 7pm.
Strong north-westerly winds had caused it to spread quickly, and there were reports of campervans blowing over, a Fire and Emergency spokesperson said.
