A significant operation, involving seven helicopters and four rural fire crews, is underway to fight a large 100 hectare vegetation fire at Awarua Bay.

The fire was first reported at 5.50pm last night (2 April).

Awarua Bay is the scene of a significant vegetation fire. NZAS buildings in foreground. Photo: Monica Toretto Photography

Two crews from Invercargill initially responded, but had difficulty accessing the site of the fast growing fire which they estimated covered around 1.5 hectares.

Photo: Southland Fire and Emergency

Two helicopters with fire fighting equipment were then dispatched along with rural fire crews.

A watch was kept on the fire overnight, with the operation ramping up significantly again this morning.