Evacuations underway as fire burns in Waipoua, Northland

Evacuations are underway as a large fire continues to burn through vegetation in Northland this afternoon.

The blaze at the Waipoua River in Kaipara – about 6km south of giant kauri Tāne Mahuta – has spread to 70 hectares with a 4km perimeter and "is expected to grow", Fire and Emergency New Zealand said this evening in a statement.

Seven helicopters and "multiple" ground crews were helping tackle the fire. An additional three helicopters would be arriving in the region tomorrow from as far away as Taupō.

"Police are assisting with evacuating dwellings in the Waipoua River Rd area. Structures are at risk but no structures have been lost," Fire and Emergency said.

"This is likely to be a long duration event."

Firefighters would continue to battle the fire until nightfall and remain on site overnight for observation.

"Helicopters and ground crews will ramp up activities at first light tomorrow and truck movement can be expected on the roads."