KEY POINTS:
Fire crews are concerned a large scrub fire could put residents of the township of Little Rakaia, south of Christchurch, in danger.
Southern fire communications shift manager Brian Sharpe said the fire was reported at 8.28am.
It currently covered 25ha and was burning so hot firefighters could only attack it from the outside.
One pump, four tankers, rural fire officers and the Department of Conservation were at the scene.
Mr Sharpe said officials were meeting at the moment to discuss whether anyone in Little Rakaia should be evacuated.
The blaze is just half a kilometre from the town.
At the moment a strong nor'west gale was blowing, but was directing the fire away from homes.
"We'll be in trouble if it changes to a southerly," Mr Sharpe said.
- NZPA
