Large fire burning in Central Otago

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A large fire is burning on the hills above Fruitlands, Central Otago.

Police have warned people in dwellings and farms in the Fruitlands to Shingle Creek area of the fire.

The fire was being fanned by high winds and was burning in a southerly direction, police said.

Police said motorists using State Highway 8 between Alexandra and Roxburgh should be aware of the possible risk of smoke obscuring their view in this area and should drive to the conditions.

Currently no properties or roads are in the fires path of the fire and no evacuations have been required.