Fire crews are responding to multiple vegetation fires across Otago and Southland this afternoon as strong winds push flames through forestry blocks, paddocks, and pine stands.

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson said crews were first called to a forestry block fire near Mataura at 2.10pm.

Nine trucks and two helicopters are at the scene.

The fire was measured at 120 metres by 20 metres around 2.40pm and has continued to grow. State Highway 96 is closed between State Highway 1 and Waimumu.

Crews are also tackling a fire in pine trees near Goodwood, Palmerston, after receiving a call at 2.35pm. Six trucks are in attendance with more on the way, and three helicopters are assisting.

A paddock fire near Balclutha is burning after crews were alerted at 1pm.

Twelve trucks and two helicopters are working on the blaze. It was measured at 150 metres by 50 metres at 2pm but has since spread.

Fire and Emergency said none of the fires are contained, and the windy conditions have caused all three to move quickly.

People were urged to avoid the affected areas. Anyone impacted by smoke should close windows and doors and stay inside.

Fire and Emergency advised the public not to light any outdoor fires today and to check recent burns from previous weeks to ensure they are fully out.

“Do not leave them to smoulder or assume a fire is completely out just because you cannot see flames or smoke. The area must be fully wetted until cold and checked again,” the spokesperson said.

Other incidents included a paddock fire in Papakaio, Waitaki, after a trampoline blew into powerlines. Crews were alerted at 2.40pm and four trucks are attending.

Two crews from Weston were called at 2.57pm to a smouldering tree at Whitstone, Waitaki.

Around 2.52pm, high winds blew three branches onto two cars in Oamaru. A dog inside one of the vehicles was not hurt, the spokesperson said.