A state of local emergency has been declared for Christchurch City, including Banks Peninsula, and the Selwyn District due to the impacts of the Port Hills fire which is burning uncontrolled.
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger and Selwyn District Council Mayor Sam Broughton made the declaration at 6.13pm.
Fire and Emergency NZ crews are battling the large fire with up to 12 helicopters at times, 25 trucks and about 130 firefighters.
In an update just before 11pm, Fire and Emergency said 22 fire crews would continue battling the blaze overnight….
