Wildfires across Canterbury prompt water restrictions

] The fires come as strong northwest winds push the temperature in Canterbury to a June high.

Water restrictions are in place in parts of Canterbury, as firefighters tackle wildfires, including a large blaze near Hawarden.

Fire and emergency services have sent dozens of crews across the Hurunui District.

The fires come as strong northwest winds push the temperature in Canterbury to a June high.

A fire outside Hawarden is not contained, but does not pose a risk to the town, fire crews say.

Fire and Emergency say a helicopter is on the way to the scene.

The high winds have prompted FENZ to urge people to check any recent fires.

Assistant district commander Brian Keown is asking people to check fire sites from the past two weeks to ensure there was no risk of them re-igniting. This includes burnoffs.

He advised people not to light any fires at the moment.

Fires near Waiau, Gebbies Valley and Kirwee are now under control.

The Hurunui fires have led the district council to bring in Level Four water restrictions, immediately limiting all non-essential water use in Hawarden and Waikari.

Water must not be used for watering gardens, pools or vehicle washing.