Fire and Emergency has evacuated four properties as a large fire burns near the scene of recent crashes on the main highway.

Fire and Emergency has evacuated four properties as a large fire burns near Lake Pukaki in Canterbury.

Fire and Emergency says they were called to the scene after a farmer’s burn-off got out of control shortly before 3pm on Monday.

Two of the homes were vacant, while the other two were evacuated as a precaution.

The blaze has been burning in the area where State Highway 80 and State Highway 8 intersect.