Seven helicopters are responding to a large scrub fire near Wānaka. 

People are being urged to stay away from the area, between Glendhu Bay and the access road to Treble Cone, as firefighters battle the blaze in windy conditions. 

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokeswoman said at 2pm, the fire was estimated to be 1km long and 100m wide. By 3.15pm, the fire had grown and it has now spread across an area spanning 2km by 800m. 

Helicopters are helping fight a major scrub fire near Wanaka. Photo / James Allan 

Wind is causing the fire to spread rapidly. Photo / James Allan 

"We were first called to the fire just off Wānaka Mt Aspiring Rd between the Treble Cone Skifield Rd at about 1.30pm this afternoon," a statement from Fire and Emergency said. 

Wanaka Mt Aspiring Road at Glendhu Bay is closed. 

The fire can be seen from Wanaka township. Photo / Jane King 

The fire started early Sunday afternoon. Photo / Janine Weatherly 

Power lines are reportedly on fire as the flames continue to spread. 

Crews from Wānaka, Arrowtown, Luggate and Dunstan are responding to the fire and being supported by seven helicopters. 

The fire is said to be moving rapidly due to windy conditions. Photo / Jessica Schmelz 

Smoke can be seen from Wanaka. Photo / Jane King 

Local Jessica Schmelz was at Glendhu Bay Campground when she spotted the flames. 

"Apparently it started on the lake side of the road, but has jumped the road and is well involved now," she told the Herald. 

Multiple crews are fighting the large fire. Photo / Janine Weatherly 

The flames spotted from Glendhu Bay Campground. Photos / Jessica Schmelz 

People are being asked to avoid the area, and not to fly drones in the area because of the presence of helicopters. 

"There have been reports of drones operating near the fire. This is exceptionally dangerous with helicopters in the air and they need to be grounded immediately," Fire and Emergency said. 

- by Vera Alves, NZ Herald with Otago Daily Times