Big scrub fire in Central Otago close to main highway near Clyde cemetery

Police say a large fire in Central Otago is now under control, three hours after it started.

Emergency services are still at the scene of the fire, close to the main highway near the Clyde cemetery in Central Otago.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesman Andrew Norris said eight fire appliances and two helicopters were sent to the blaze, which the service was alerted to at 4.59pm.

Smoke could be seen from Alexandra.

The fire was covering around 200ha of steep terrain, fanned along by light winds, Norris said.

Smoke could be seen from Alexandra. Photo / Pam Jones

Police said the fire was right next to the intersection of State Highway 8 and Springvale Rd.

Smoke was affecting motorists earlier this evening, and traffic controls were in place.

Police asked that motorists avoid the area unless absolutely necessary while emergency services respond to the blaze.

Road users were asked to be patient if they experienced delays.

The fire is now under control and police have left the scene.

Traffic control was in place and police asked that motorists avoid the area unless absolutely necessary while emergency services respond to the blaze. Photo / Kristy Velenski, ODT