Firefighters say the vegetation fire at Bridge Hill has been "largely controlled" today, but would remain on high alert as MetService forecasts strong northwesterly gales with gusts of up to 150km/h for the area.

In a statement, Fire and Emergency NZ said the fire had not grown beyond its existing boundaries overnight, remaining at 980 hectares.

There were no helicopters operating due to the wind.

Incident commander Colin Russell said the fire behaviour remains "relatively benign with good progress made in eliminating hotspots".

This work would continue today as conditions permit, he added.

"The risk over the next 24 hours will be largely dependent on the high winds and forecast rain."

A raft of weather warnings and watches have been issued by MetService for Sunday, including an orange strong wind warning for the Canterbury High Country.

Weather conditions also could make driving dangerous, and Russell said the road conditions would continue to be assessed.

"We will be working with Waka Kotahi to provide any updates on possible closures on SH73."

Yesterday, Russell said the focus had shifted from containment to control as the terrain made it not feasible to establish containment lines around the perimeter of the fire.

"We are working to control the activity of the fire, which means suppressing hotspots and flareups, and keeping it in the same place as much as possible."

He also said all recreation areas between Castle Hill and Lake Pearson were closed.

"This is for the safety of everyone, both the public and our people," Russell said.

"We don't want to be having to rescue anyone if they find themselves in a dangerous situation.

"If everyone can please just avoid this general area near the fire it will keep everyone safe."