UPDATED 9.36pm A skeleton crew will remain on standby overnight, to make sure a major fire west of Christchurch doesn't spread.

The blaze broke out on Rowallan Road this afternoon near Coalgate, when a controlled burnoff went horribly wrong.

A house was destroyed, but fire crews managed to stop flames from reaching several evacuated properties.

It's not yet known when those residents will be able to return to their homes.

Selwyn Rural Fire officer Douglas Marshall said the fire is contained, but firefighters will stay on the scene to monitor it.

"We need to make sure that there is no chance of an ignition during the evening."

Marshall said a change from strong north-westerly to south-west winds is expected later tonight.

He's hoping that will reduce temperatures and the risk of more fires.

Power has been restored to hundreds of homes in the area, but just over 50 residents are still without.