A stark warning for the South Island around fire risks - as Canterbury battles winds of up to 150 kilometres

MetService issued a red weather warning for the Canterbury high country from 10pm yesterday until 3pm this afternoon.

Orange weather warnings are in place for the rest of the South Island, Wellington, and the Wairarapa.

Fire and Emergency, Mid-South Canterbury District Commander, Rob Hands, says winds across the South Island could stir up fires.

He advises landowners in the region to check any fires they've had within the last three months - and make sure they're cold, out and wet.