Smoke billows across the hillside along Waimarama Road - south of Havelock North.
The blaze - which started Monday morning - quickly spread - claiming at least one home.
A state of emergency has been declared in the Hastings District as hot temperatures and strong winds fan several fires throughout the area.
Residents in surrounding properties have been evacuated - as fire appliances from around the region converge on the area.
At least 20 volunteers have been enlisted - including workers on local farms.
Unison turned off power to 700 customers in the Waimarama area - as a safety precaution.
Fire officials are asking people to stay away from the Colin White Road area - complaining rubbernecks are already getting in the way.
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