The fire in Moutere near Nelson has now been "basically contained", according to Robin Thompson, the Deputy Principal fire officer from Nelson Tasman district.
Mr Thompson told Newshub they are hoping to get residents back into their homes tonight.
Crews are still working to fight the fire that broke out at Redwood Valley in Moutere on Wednesday.
Anyone who self evacuates is being asked to register with the Welfare Centre at New Life Church on 85 Wensley Rd, Richmond.
Earlier, police told residents to evacuate as the fire reached four hectares in size and spread rapidly.
Metservice meteorologist Georgina Griffiths says the weather over the coming days would be little help in controlling the blaze.
"This evening's front produces very little for Nelson. Some in the Nelson region will get a sprinkle but it will be so little," she said in a statement on Wednesday
"Basically in the next five days there's virtually nothing of note for Nelson in terms of rain. It looks very dry."
January and February have been the driest months on record for the region, and that looks set to continue through March.
Police earlier evacuated areas of Moutere Highway, and seven helicopters responded. Fire and Emergency NZ responded to the fire on the ground as well.
"The fire has been confirmed at Cut Hill Road, Moutere," Fire and Emergency posted on Facebook.
"There are currently 16 appliances plus support vehicles (pumps and tankers) at the site with helicopters en route."
Newshub.
