Emergency services responded to a large scrub fire in Canterbury believed to have been caused by a passing train on Thursday afternoon.
The fire was burning next to the railway lines along State Highway 73 between Courtenay Rd and Ansons Rd in Kirwee.
The fire was initially threatening a house in the area but "quick actions" from firefighters prevented the blaze from spreading.
Said a Fire and Emergency NZ spokesperson: "There is a fire burning next to the railway lines between Courtenay Rd and Ansons Rd, Kirwee.
"This is causing a lot of smoke. We have three appliances and three tankers in attendance at this stage.
"Please avoid the area to allow our crews to work safely.
"There are currently no properties at risk at this moment.
"One property was initially under threat but quick actions by the local brigade protected it."
