Fire and Emergency is responding to several vegetation fires in and around Kaikoura that have damaged or threatened structures.

They have also received multiple calls to damage caused by strong winds.

 

A number of cordons are in place, with multiple road closures around the area.

Police are also assisting with the evacuations of schools and residents in surrounding areas.

If members of the public have been evacuated, Police advise them to travel to Kaikōura High School or the Kaikōura Golf Course.

State Highway 1 is closed between Kaikōura and Blenheim because of multiple hazards impacting this stretch of road today.

Read more: State Highway 1 closed between Kaikōura and Blenheim

Closure points have been established just north of Kaikōura and just south of Blenheim.

Firefighters are prioritising incidents where life is at risk.

 

Firefighters from Marlborough and Canterbury are working to contain the fires.

Head of Kiwirail Fleet Operations John Mills, told Chris Lynch Media emergency services have requested that all train movements be halted between Clarence and Kaikōura while crews respond to the unfolding situation.

The decision comes amid concerns over high winds and the closure of State Highway 1.