Fire rapidly spreading in Canterbury

Fire crews are battling to control a fire rapidly spreading across paddocks in Canterbury, west of Christchurch.

The blaze broke out on Bealey Road, near Hororata shortly after 1.30pm.

Seventeen fire engines and tankers as well as three helicopters are working to control the fire.

A southern fire and emergency spokesperson said one shed and several hedges had already been destroyed by the flames, which were spreading very quickly across the land.