LIVE: (12.00AM) Strong winds intensify fire between Kirwee and ...

Strong winds have intensified a pine forest fire near Kirwee and West Melton, forcing evacuations and cutting power to a number of Canterbury areas.

As first reported by ChrisLynchMedia.com, emergency crews were alerted to the fire on Thompsons Road shortly after 9 PM on Sunday.

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) Command Unit was set up to coordinate efforts.

Evacuations began with a caravan park in The Willows area and extended to residents east of Thompsons Road to McKays Road.

A FENZ spokesperson said “our crews are continuing to work to contain the fire. We have 14 trucks, tankers and support vehicles at the scene.”

Evacuees were being directed to the West Melton Community Centre for shelter.

“No further evacuations have been made. We will notify you if you need to evacuate either via door knock or an Emergency Mobile Alert” the FENZ spokesperson said.

Nearby residents have reported “really strong” winds fueling the fire’s growth.

The Southbridge Hotel has also stepped in to assist, offering free accommodation to evacuees. Six rooms are available, and those in need can contact Harry at 021 070 6040.

This is not the only fire keeping Canterbury firefighters busy tonight.

Crews are also battling a large blaze in Waimate and responding to multiple wind-related callouts across the region.

Metservice had forecast severe northwest gale with localised damaging gusts of up to 150 km/h in exposed places.

Power outages have been reported across Broadfield, Hornby, Lincoln, Prebbleton, Rolleston, Springston, Templeton, Weedons, and West Melton, according to Orion.

Additionally, MainPower has confirmed power cuts in several other areas within its network.