Firefighters have contained a large vegetation fire which had closed part of State Highway 1 south of Waipara in North Canterbury.
State Highway 1 has now reopened to traffic, and additional fire crews will return later this morning.
"Two homes were evacuated along Glasnevin Road and Darnley Road," said Fire and Emergency.
"At this stage FENZ believe no property or livestock was damaged."
The fire was about five hectares in size.
Heavy machinery assisted with firefighting efforts.
The blaze was burning on both sides of the highway.
A 1News reporter at the scene last night said the road was blocked in both directions with cars backed up all the way through Amberley.
Public health warning issued
Just before 10pm, Te Whatu Ora National Public Health Service issued a public health warning for residents impacted by smoke from the fire.
"Air around this location is smoky and there is potential that people who are sensitive to smoke — such as those with heart or lung conditions, people who are pregnant, young children and the elderly — may experience symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath or eye, nose and throat irritation," the statement said.
Medical Officer of Health National Public Health Service Dr Cheryl Brunton said exposure to smoke can worsen pre-existing health conditions such as heart and lung disease.
"People affected by the smoke should close windows and doors and reduce outdoor exercise," she said.
Te Whatu Ora advised to keep windows and doors shut, switch air conditioning to 'recirculate' and air out the house when the smoke clears and it is safe to do so.
SHARE ME