An out-of-control scrub fire is burning at Peria, south of Mangonui, in the Far North.
The fire reportedly covered 2ha about 5.30pm, but an hour later had grown to cover 8ha, the Fire Service said in a tweet.
About 30 firefighters were battling the blaze.
Eight fire crews and a helicopter were responding to the blaze on Oruru Rd, near the bowling club, Fire Service northern communication shift manager Paul Raddem said.