Winds and wildfires rage across Canterbury on its warmest June day ever

UpdatedNZ Herald20 Jun, 2026 04:42 AM2 mins to readDozens of fire crews are battling multiple uncontrolled wildfires across Canterbury this afternoon. Photo / Alex CairnsDozens of fire crews are battling multiple uncontrolled wildfires across Canterbury this afternoon. Photo / Alex CairnsDozens of fire crews are battling several out of control wildfires across Canterbury this afternoon, as Christchurch records its hottest June day ever.Fire and Emergency New Zealand said 16 appliances are fighting a large uncontrolled wildfire near Hawarden and a helicopter is on the way.

“The fire is not