Fire and Emergency are fighting two fires in North Canterbury caused by lightning strikes earlier this evening.

Crews from Hanmer and the Department of Conservation are fighting one fire near Lake Tennyson.

A crew from Hurunui is at the other - near Lake Sumner.

Helicopters have been sent to both scenes in an effort to bring the fires under control.

Fire and Emergency are also assessing the resources that may be needed for not only both these fires, but also across the region tomorrow, given the hot weather conditions.

More to come