Kawerau firefighters battled a scrub fire on the outskirts of town which may have been caused by lightning.
The blaze was centred on the cliff face of an area locals call Whatuira, which is across the river from the Kawerau Golf Club on Cobham Drive.
A helicopter with a monsoon bucket worked for hours attempting to bring the fire under control.
Although the cause of the fire has not been established, locals believe a violent electrical storm may have been responsible.
Local woman Anneke Hepi said although the sun was shining brightly, thunder could be heard about 2pm.
