Crews have contained a large scrub fire between Rolleston and Canterbury.

Four helicopters, six fire appliances and eight tankers battled the blaze, which was reported around 4.30pm.

It quickly spread across 40 hectares and up to 21 appliances and four helicopters worked to contain the fire, Incident Controller Mike Johns said.

"At one stage up to 10 properties were at risk, and we managed to protect all of them.

"Although a double garage and a hay barn were lost in the fire."

Crews were called to the fire on Waterholes Rd, near Main South Rd at 4.30 this afternoon.

Johns says while the fire is now contained, crews will be there throughout the night.

"The dry weather coupled with strong winds caused this fire to spread quickly, and crews will remain overnight to ensure we stay on top of it."

There are no reports of injuries, police said in a statement.

The intersection between Main South Rd and Waterholes Rd was closed earlier, with police assisting with traffic management near the blaze.

Motorists were advised to expect delays and avoid the area if possible.