Firefighters work to contain Canterbury fire in 'favourable' conditions
Firefighters are hopeful they can contain the fire at Bridge Hill during "favourable conditions" before strong winds and high temperatures pick up later in the day.
In an update, Incident Commander Colin Russell said five helicopters and 110 personnel supported by three heavy machinery were on the ground today.
"This afternoon the wind is forecast to strengthen, and temperatures will be in the mid to high 20s," he said.
"This will be less favourable conditions for getting this fire contained and the risk of breakouts will be higher so we will be closely monitoring the fire."
Russell said as of this morning the fires remained at 980 hectares with a 17km perimeter.
MetService said there was an orange strong wind warning for Canterbury High Country from 10am-10pm for Sunday, with gusts expected to get to 150km/h.
SH73 remains open but with traffic restrictions through the affected area.
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Seven crews will be monitoring the blaze overnight as winds are forecast to strengthen.
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Eleven homes in Castle Hill Village remain occupied after residents were told earlier today to prepare to evacuate.
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"We'd like to thank all the road users for their patience and adhering to the traffic restrictions in place," Russell said.
No buildings were lost overnight or at risk from the fire.
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