A large vegetation fire that burned across an area equivalent in size to 16 rugby fields near Clyde has been contained around its perimeter, with firefighting crews set to remain on site overnight to keep things under control.

“The crews are currently working on what we refer to as deep-seated fires,” a spokesperson for Fire and Emergency New Zealand told The Central App Wednesday evening.

“The incident will continue into tomorrow.”

The fire was described by crews on the ground as measuring approximately 400 metres by 400 metres, the spokesperson said.

Images: Susan Heal

Videos shared to social media showed the fire burning through dry grassland and pine trees along Springvale Rd linking Clyde with Omakau.

Thirteen fire trucks were deployed from Dunstan, Clyde, Alexandra, Cromwell, Dunedin, Omakau, Tarras, Blackstone and Millers Flat, supported by additional command and support vehicles, the FENZ spokesperson said.

Four helicopters with monsoon buckets were also fighting the fire from the air.

One structure has been lost, although the spokesperson said they could not confirm what type of structure it was.

No injuries were reported.

A number of houses were evacuated after the fire earlier threatened two structures.

Image: Susan Heal

On Facebook at approximately 5pm Wednesday, FENZ said the fire was "emitting a lot of smoke which is drifting towards Alexandra".

"If you are in the vicinity of the smoke, please stay inside with windows closed," it said.

"Please stay away from the area of the fire so firefighters can do their job to contain the fire."

The cause of the fire is not yet known.

The district entered a prohibited fire season on Saturday.

Read more: 'Surprise' fire ban for Central

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