Warning to avoid the smoke after large fertiliser plant catches fire in Christchurch

A large fire broke out at the Ravensdown fertiliser plant in Christchurch this morning, prompting a warning to residents.

The fire was reported about 10:15am and firefighters are now bringing it under control.

The plant is located in the suburb of Hornby and a large plume of fire was seen across the city.

Ravensdown confirmed everyone was accounted for and there were no reported injuries.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand warned residents and people who work in the area to keep their doors and windows closed, and to try to avoid the smoke as best they could.

Police have closed a section of Main South Road, Hornby, with the closure extending from Carmen Road to Springs Road.