A large fire has taken over a forestry area in North Canterbury. 

Five fire crews and one helicopter are working to put out a massive blaze at Doone Station near Mount Lyford. 

The fire has started in an area of slash, debris left over from logging operations. 

It's reached 500 by 500 metres in size so far. 

The fire is currently threatening a woolshed and a stand of manuka. 

Fire and Emergency spokesman Andrew Norris says the wind is causing a significant challenge for crews. 

He says a second helicopter is on its way. 

Meanwhile, firefighters are on standby with the strong winds forecast to blow across Canterbury 

Firefighters on alert with high winds across Canterbury. (Photo / George Heard) 

Fire trucks were also called to a vegetation fire in a median strip near Christchurch Airport.