Scrub fires raging in central North Island

File photo / NZH

Twelve fire appliances are battling scrub fires near Raurimu in the central North Island.

Fire crews were called to the scrub fire, which has developed into a number of spot fires in bush near the town, about 1.05pm.

A helicopter was on standby as more than 30 firefighters battled strong winds to contain the fires, fire service spokesman Tim Rees said.

At one stage there was a fire front of about 100 metres by 50 metres which had since been contained.

The fire was on Department of Conservation land above State Highway 4 and no homes were threatened.

It was not known how the fires started, Mr Rees said.

- NZPA