Children playing with fireworks start Port Hills fire

Fire Service spokesman Brent Dunn said the fire was extinguished by one crew from the Addington Fire Station. Photo / File

At least one fire has been started by fireworks as New Zealanders celebrate Guy Fawkes today.

Children playing with fireworks started a 60m-square fire on the Port Hills of Christchurch about 6.30pm, said Fire Service spokesman Brent Dunn.

Mr Dunn said the fire was extinguished by one crew from the Addington Fire Station.

"The kids were still at the scene and they were given a safety briefing from the crew," he said.

"It was an accidental fire caused by fireworks."

The fire was at the Coronation Reserve on Major Aitken Drive, Huntsbury.

A rubbish bin outside a fireworks shop in Auckland also caught alight, but it was not known if this was caused by fireworks.

Crews were called to Rosscommon Rd in Clendon Park about 7.30pm and extinguished the minor blaze.