The state of emergency in Christchurch's Port Hills has been extended for another week, Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel has confirmed.
Eight days after the fires broke out, the blaze was "contained'' but a massive dampening down operation continued.
It remained a "serious situation'', Ms Dalziel said.
"The fire is still being fought on the ground and in the air,'' she said.
"The environment remains volatile inside the controlled area. The fire is not out and there are extensive hot spots to deal with.
"There is always the risk that further evacuations could be required.''
Residents of two roads in Christchurch's Port Hills kept out of their home by the massive blaze over the past week were allowed back yesterday morning.
Yesterday, residents of about 100 homes from Kennedys Bush and Hoon Hay Valley Rds were allowed back to their properties.
But residents of 46 other properties were still unable to return.
A drone is being flown above the Port Hills to help the fire service gather thermal and infrared hotspot information. - NZN
