Firefighters battle large scrub fire, believed to be caused by lightning, in Central Otago

Firefighters have spent the night battling a large scrub fire believed to have been caused by lightning strikes in Central Otago.

Ten helicopters, four ground crew and a number of trucks are at the scene, with two more ground crews arriving by midday.

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson told 1 NEWS the fire has spread to 280 hectares and is threatening two properties.

The people in the properties have been evacuated and taken to Kokonga Lodge.

Police have notified all people from Hyde to Kokonga to be prepared to evacuate.

SH87 from Hyde to Kyeburn is closed and the rail trail section from Waipiata to Hyde is also closed.