Bonfire started massive scrub fire at Te Haroto, near Napier

Eight teams have been sent to the blaze, including appliances from Hastings, Napier, Bay View, Taradale and Te Pohue. Photo / File

Firefighters have contained a large fire Te Haroto, between Napier and Taupo, believed to have started accidentally after a bonfire was lit.

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) spokeswoman said the blaze had been about the size of five rugby fields.

Emergency services were called to the scene about 60km from Napier about midday on Sunday. The fire was burning along Waitara Rd, in between the intersections of Brooks Rd and Taraponui Rd near the Glenfalls DOC campsite. Emergency service workers had based themselves at the campsite.

The fire is near Te Haroto, about 60km from Napier.

Up to 18 teams were sent to the blaze from Hastings, Napier, Bay View, Taradale, Te Pohue and other local fire brigades. A helicopter using a monsoon bucket had also been deployed.

About 3.15pm, most of the fire crews had been called back and firefighters were managing hot spots on the large fire scene, to avoid the fire reigniting.

The fire was believed to have started out as a bonfire but got out of control and spread rapidly due to strong winds.

The Fenz spokeswoman said the main focus had been to keep the fire away from properties in the area and contain the blaze.