A drive up Te Mata Peak to survey the view took a dangerous turn for local Tali Notoa when the van he had used burst into flames.
The Fire Service received "multiple calls" from Hastings residents yesterday who had noticed wisps of smoke rising from the lookout, about 3.30pm.
As the vehicle was gutted by flames that melted its tyres, burst windows and shocked onlookers, smoke thickened the air.
"I brought my visitors from [Samoa] up here. They arrived yesterday for a conference and celebration. I came up to show them the beauty of Hawke's Bay," Mr Notoa said.
"We got out, took a few pictures, then about 10 or 15 minutes later I saw smoke under the car. We tried to get some water but couldn't find any.