The fire on Christchurch's Port Hills has continued to spread Wednesday night.
On Wednesday evening, Fire and Emergency said it was about 100-hectares in size.
But embers, carried by the strong hot northwesterly wind, were sparking new fires.
Residents have been evacuated around Early Valley, Worsley Spur, Hoon Hay Valley, and Kennedy's Bush.
Firefighters continued ground operations Wednesday night, and helicopters with monsoon buckets have just rejoined the effort are expected to join the operation again on Thursday.
A state of local emergency has been declared for the Christchurch City and Selwyn District Councils.
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger spoke to Corin Dann.
