Scrub fire in Rangiora

Firefighters have been battling a large scrub fire for several hours in Rangiora, north of Christchurch -- the second of two fires in the township this afternoon.

Fire crews quickly put out a small fire near the Ashley River rail bridge about 3.20pm, but up to 50 people are still fighting a fire reported at the same time near the Rangiora Golf Club.

About 18 appliances, including a helicopter and tankers, were at the fire between the Ashley River and Coldstream Road, a fire service spokesman said.

The blaze was spreading and had burnt over an area already extinguished.

- NZPA