Big scrub fire near Huka Falls suspicious

Firefighters and a helicopter has been called to a blaze in bush at Spa Park, Taupo, at 6.30am today. Photo / File

A scrub fire near a popular tourist attraction just outside Taupo is being treated as suspicious.

Firefighters were called to the fire on the Huka Falls and Spa Park walkway at 6.30am.

Northern Fire Communications shift manager Scott Osmond said two crews, a tanker and a helicopter were sent to help Department of Conservation staff douse the blaze.

Initially the firefighters could not get to the 50sq m blaze from the ground so it was battled from the sky.

It was brought under control by 9.30am but DoC crews remained at the scene for some time.

Fire Service Central-Lakes assistant area commander Hamish Smith confirmed the fire was being treated as suspicious.

"A witness saw some suspicious behaviour around the area at the time the fire was ignited. It's a good reminder for people to be alert and contact authorities if you think someone is acting suspiciously."