A full investigation's been launched into the fire which destroyed a home west of Christchurch yesterday.

SEE ALSO: One house destroyed in Darfield fire

SEE ALSO: Son watches his safe haven burn to the ground

Fire crews have spent all day at the scene of the fire, which was brought under control last night after spreading across 60 hectares of rural land.

Selwyn principal rural fire officer Douglas Marshall said initial indications suggest the fire started when a controlled burn-off reignited.

A skeleton crew will remain a standby overnight.

Residents who were evacuated yesterday have now returned to their homes.